Robert Shetterly - Walt Whitman's Commandments

The speaker discusses their emotional response to the Iraq war and how they chose to express their feelings through art. Inspired by Walt Whitman's words, they painted his portrait, which resonated with others. Encouraged by their wife, they decided to create a series of 50 portraits titled 'Americans Who Tell the Truth' and give them away, finding a sense of purpose in this project.

What motivated the speaker to respond to their feelings about the Iraq war through art?

How did the quote from Walt Whitman influence the speaker's artistic direction?

What was the initial reaction of the visitors to the painting of Walt Whitman?

What epiphany did the speaker have after discussing their painting with their wife?

Why did the speaker decide to give away the portraits they planned to create?