Patriotic artist Scott LoBaido is putting the finishing touches on what he describes as the largest oil-on-canvas portrait ever of Old Glory at the Great American State Fair in Washington, D.C., a celebration tied to America's 250th birthday anniversary. The Staten Island-based painter said his 9-by-17-foot American flag represents all Americans regardless of political affiliation.
The work is being created live at the Made in America Pavilion during the fair. LoBaido told Fox News Digital he believes the piece may be the largest oil-on-canvas American flag ever created, and said there was no better venue for its public unveiling than at America's semiquincentennial celebration.
What the Left Is Saying
Progressive critics have long argued that displaying the American flag has become politicized, particularly in recent years when it became associated with specific political movements. Some Democratic voters and liberal commentators maintain that symbols of patriotism are often wielded selectively, pointing to instances where conservative figures have claimed exclusive ownership over national imagery.
Some voices on the left have noted that flag-related controversies often ignore deeper conversations about the country's history regarding equality and justice. Civil liberties advocates argue that true patriotism includes the right to critique the nation in pursuit of making it better, and that flag desecration laws themselves raise First Amendment questions about government control over symbolic expression.
What the Right Is Saying
Conservative voices have largely embraced LoBaido's message, arguing that the American flag represents foundational principles of freedom and self-governance that transcend partisan politics. Supporters say the artist's work reinforces that patriotism is a unifying force rather than a divisive one.
LoBaido himself has been an outspoken supporter of President Trump and has previously painted the president in live settings. He argued that those who protest by desecrating the flag are exercising rights the flag itself protects. 'That American flag that men and women still die for is giving you the freedom to be whatever you want, and do whatever you want – protest whatever you want,' he said.
What the Numbers Show
The Great American State Fair in Washington, D.C., is part of a broader celebration commemorating America's 250th birthday, drawing visitors throughout the holiday period. LoBaido expects to complete final touches on Independence Day before the painting finds a permanent home.
LoBaido has previously sold paintings to President Trump and said he has received interest in this piece, though no sale has been finalized. He estimated its potential value at hundreds of thousands of dollars but noted he donates a substantial portion of proceeds to charitable causes.
The Bottom Line
The painting's unveiling comes during a period of heightened political division in the United States, making questions about national symbols and their meaning particularly charged. LoBaido has said some Democrats attending the fair have engaged with him respectfully despite knowing his political views.
The artist has suggested the White House as a potential permanent home for the work, though no formal discussions with the administration have been confirmed publicly. The final unveiling is expected on Independence Day.