An American Portrait

A collection of heartfelt firsts

A first memory leaves a lasting impression—from the first day of school to the first goodbye. In this series, Terry Redlin draws from his own memories to tell a story of heartfelt firsts. Each painting in this series is unique yet builds upon preceding images of a house and the changing seasons of life.

Many of the men and women who fought for our country’s freedom have paid the ultimate price. Terry painted this series as a way to honor veterans and their families. His painting, “His First Goodbye“, specifically tells the emotional true story of a young man leaving his mother and father’s home after joining the military.

Explore the seven paintings in An American Portrait series and recall many of your own firsts.

Artwork in this series

His First Friend

Mother and Child Experience the Excitement and Happiness of a New Friend and Home

Years:
Painted: 1997   Published: 2004
Learn More

His First Day

Series:
An American Portrait
Years:
Painted: 1997   Published: 2004
Learn More

His First Date

Mother and Child Both Experience the Tensions of Growing Up

Years:
Painted: 1997   Published: 2005
Learn More

His First Graduation

Series:
An American Portrait
Years:
Painted: 1997   Published: 2005
Learn More

His First Homecoming

Series:
An American Portrait
Years:
Painted: 1997   Published: 2006
Learn More

His First Goodbye

Series:
An American Portrait
Years:
Painted: 1997   Published: 2006
Learn More

His Last Goodbye

Series:
An American Portrait
Years:
Painted: 1997   Published: 2006
Learn More