That’s just the start of a mural paying patriotic tribute to area veterans and the village of Lisbon — a mural which will include much more for the eye to see — likely promoting feelings of patriotism and gratitude.

“Painting the American flag is important, it’s supporting the men and women who serve and protect,” artist Sara Gordon said.

A muralist from Rogers, Gordon was commissioned by the VFW to paint the wall and they chose a design which includes the flag, an eagle, VFW Wilfred Clunk Post 4111, insignias of all six United State military service branches and silhouettes of soldiers and families. The six military branches include the Army, Navy, Marines, Air Force, Coast Guard and Space Force.

“We want people to know how proud we are to be part of Lisbon,” VFW Post 4111 Trustee Roger Bacon said.

Local muralist Sara Gordon, right, poses with her stepdaughter, Sydney Trimnel, who has helped her with the mural in Lisbon. (Photo by K. Brighton Crescent Captures Photography)

The post just celebrated its 81st anniversary on May 5, with the VFW opening in Lisbon on May 5, 1945. He said the project has nothing to do with the 250th birthday of America. For that, the VFW purchased a banner for the Lisbon Chamber of Commerce to display.

The mural is more of a gift to the community. He said it’s good for Lisbon and good for the VFW. Bacon said it’s to honor the veterans of this area and the history of veterans in Columbiana County.

“That’s what we’re about,” he said.

Columbiana County has a rich history of service by veterans, with some giving the ultimate sacrifice while serving.

“We’re proud of where we are and where we came from. Why not display it for all veterans?” Bacon said.

“The VFW is a huge supporter of the Lisbon community,” Gordon said.

She worked with the VFW previously by painting the POW emblem on the smoke shed on the property last year. She’s also responsible for the mural at Mary’s Pizza and the mural at the Columbiana County Fairgrounds that greets visitors crossing the historic bowstring bridge. Her murals can be found all over, including Missouri, West Virginia, Cleveland, Pittsburgh, Beaver Falls, Monaca and even Costa Rica.

Gordon started painting on canvas when she was young, originally hailing from Ellwood City, Pa.

“Somebody let me paint on a wall and I liked it,” she said.

She had some schooling at the Beaver County Community College, but most of her skill was self-taught. Her art started small on those canvasses, but now this project is 25 feet tall and 60 feet wide and requires a lift to carry her to the high parts.

“Murals grab a lot of attention,” Gordon said.

The project started last Wednesday with the wall power washed, then last Thursday she primed using a masonry primer, then last Friday she started. She’s using a combination of spray paint and latex. She’s had some help from her stepdaughter, Sidney Trimnel. She also has a photographer, Kate Fryman, taking photos of the progress. Fryman works professionally as K. Brighton Crescent Captures Photography.

Gordon has been garnering a lot of attention from people passing by, some stopping to talk or take photos and some yelling from their vehicles giving her the thumbs up.

She’s hoping to finish sometime next week.

“I think we’re going to be very proud,” Bacon said.

To learn more or see other samples of work by Gordon, visit saragordon.art.