I began this painting on Jan. 1, 2015, and it was officially signed on Christmas Day, 2015. I reflect on all those who made the Coast Guard painting come to life, and at year’s end, appreciate all the support as the 3rd painting comes to a close. The painting will be installed at the Cemetery on February 6, 2016. Much more to come. With all my very best to all of you in the New Year.

Coast Guard painting signed

Officially signing the Coast Guard painting

It’s December 5th, and the painting is heading towards completion. Just two months away from installation, scheduled for February 6, 2016. Details to come. Once the Coast Guard painting is installed, the project is 3/5 complete–with thanks to the donors whose belief in the project continues to inspire. To all Veterans and your families, each day on the painting is in honor of your commitment and sacrifice.

Coast Guard painting, Dec. 5, 2015.

Last week Kapsner received a packet in the mail from Homeland Security…which, no matter what gives a person pause. But inside was terrific news: Charles is a new member of the Coast Guard Art Program (COGAP) which uses fine art as an outreach tool for educating diverse audiences about the United States Coast Guard. The program is a partnership between the Coast Guard and the Salmagundi Art Club, a New York City artistic and cultural center for over 140 years. INTERESTING FACT: The United States Coast Guard is the only military organization within the Department of Homeland Security.

As part of a visit to the Brainerd region, Congressmen Nolan and Walz were granted some one-on-one time with artist Charles Kapsner and Veterans Educational Historic Project committee members Phil Ringstrom and Joseph Schirmers, VFW State Chaplain.  Kapsner noted that they were able to converse more about the project and share ideas for more outreach. “It was a great honor to have them both take time out of a hectic schedule and see the paintings”, Kapsner said.

Congressmen Rick Nolan and TIm Walz in front of the U.S. Navy painting. L-R, Phil Ringstrom, Congressman Rick Nolan, Charles Kapsner, Congressman Tim Walz, and Joseph Schirmers.

Great coverage for the Coast Guard painting in the St. Cloud Times Memorial Day Marks Progress for Little Falls artist. Great images and story by Frank Rajkowski and photos by Kimm Anderson. Join us at the Minnesota State Veterans Cemetery on Sunday, May 24th where the Coast Guard painting will be on display and Kapsner will be there to talk about the paintings. The theme of Sunday’s event is “Honoring Women of the U.S. Military.” Carla L. Tappainer, 1st vice commander of the Apple Valley American Legion Post 1776, will be the guest speaker. The service begins at 1:30 p.m. with instrumental music from the Richfield Symphonic Orchestra and continues with a parade of flags at 1:55 p.m. Join us in honoring the men and women of the U.S. Armed Forces.

The Sunday, May 3rd edition of the Star Tribune included the Project in its special edition Art Worth the Drive which was part of its special 12-page Museums and Attractions in Minnesota, featuring 20 of the “best art and museum artifacts in outstate Minnesota.”

Kapsner has been working on the Coast Guard painting, which is anticipated to be on display as a “work in progress” for the Memorial Day events at the Minnesota State Veterans Cemetery May 22 -24. More to come. For now…much is beginning to show.

Current status of the Navy painting

Kapsner captures “soul” of the military in memorial art