Painting of the Fence by Michael Rosato

2016

When determining the layout and plan for the Memorial, an international design competition was hosted. In an effort to memorialize the tragedy, this competition resulted in 624 designs and design boards voted on by Oklahoma community members. Eventually, the field was narrowed to five, with Hans and Torrey Butzer with associate Sven Berg’s entry discovered as the winner. The Memorial, just like the Fence, was curated by multiple people, with many voices being heard. This painting by Michael Rosato reminds us of that inclusive process and of the importance of designers and creatives.

The Memorial is also a center for education and remembrance, highlighting the effects of senseless violence and honoring those who were killed. It is a story that spans across time. In this painting, a guardian holds a child’s hand as they both gaze at the Fence. The focus of the piece is on the child, highlighting the importance of continuing to tell the story to future generations.

This painting was commissioned and placed in the last Chapter of the Memorial Museum when it opened in February 2001 and was there until it was updated with an experiential glass overlook in 2015. This new overlook gives visitors a chance to see the Memorial while learning the story inside the Museum. The canvas painting was then stored in the Memorial Archives collection.