Poster Image

Portrait of Jermain and Sarah Lougen in front of house

$20

Item#: 2024SYR02

Purchase Details

11x17-inches, printed on heavy weight (100-pound) Hammermill cover paper. We package each print with a piece of chipboard in a clear plastic sleeve.

You also receive…

An information page with photos of the artist and poet, and hand-written comments from each.

Medium- and large-format posters are available by custom order. Contact us for details.

Poem Inspiration Location

North Star Shines Bright On

poster information

Description

North Star shines bright on

Loguen's station, safe passage

to liberation

I wanted to unite the North Star and the Rev. Jermain Wesley Loguen here—a reflection on their roles as unwavering guides representing hope and freedom for slaves fleeing to the north.

As a prominent abolitionist known as the “Underground Railroad King,” Loguen welcomed thousands of freedom seekers to his Syracuse station, where he and his family provided them with a safe haven, helping them gain independence—settling here in Central New York or continuing their journey north to Canada.

And there in the night sky was the North Star— it’s brilliant light showing them the way.

I chose to depict Sarah Loguen & her father, Reverend Jermain Loguen, not only for their profound impact on our city (& nation’s) history, but also for how strongly their bond resonated with me. I myself have a strong connection to my father. I know that as an artist, my successes are largely due to the support my father has shown me throughout my entire life, as a child, and now into adulthood.

To see such a strong display of parental support leading to historical greatness, on many fronts, is an example that deserves celebration & recognition.