This sketch is labeled “Candle” and has two different biblical symbols. The first, from Job 14:3 (should it be 1 Sam 3:3 [fire from the ground] ?), defines the candle of the Lord as his divine favor and blessing. The second, Proverbs 20:27, symbolizes the candle as the conscience. His lifelong efforts relating to his dictionaries and other educational materials were based on fulfilling his understanding of God’s purposes for his life. His reflection and contemplation were manifested into action; the American dictionary of the English Language became his Opus Dei.

Here I wanted to show Webster in a more reverent and explicit prayerful manner. This sketch depicts the dedication of his work to God. The candle may represent the light of God, or just the light of knowledge and truth. The candle also may speak to the lateness of the hour, and hours of dedication to this work.

This sketch is labeled “Window” because Noah’s inspiration or enlightenment is accessible from the God of light or the God of nature. His lifelong efforts relating to his dictionaries and other educational materials were based on fulfilling his understanding of God’s purposes for his life. His reflection and contemplation were manifested into action; the American dictionary of the English Language became his Opus Dei.

Here again is Webster studying and writing from the Bible. The window has been added as a light source, perhaps symbolizing the light of diety shining on his work. There might be rays of light streaming through clouds to further symbolize this. The picturesque countryside landscape seen through the window may symbolize America.

This sketch is labeled “Light” because Noah’s inspiration or enlightenment is an open view from an indescribable divine source. His lifelong efforts relating to his dictionaries and other educational materials were based on fulfilling his understanding of God’s purposes for his life. His reflection and contemplation were manifested into action; the American dictionary of the English Language became his Opus Dei.

In this sketch I am trying to highlight the Bible as the foundation of Noah Webster’s studies. He isn’t just reading it but rather studying and taking notes that may one day lead to the creation of his dictionaries.

The sketches to Re-capture the Spirit of Noah Webster are finished. Thanks to Dave McClellan for all of his hard work. These sketches are a starting point for a discussion. The current poll gives you a chance to vote on a particular sketch. Elements can each sketch can be implemented into a final composition. The final composition will be digital composition in full color. Please participate with us as we proceed with this process. We are in the process of learning from the Noah Webster House more historic details about his office, his desk, etc.

Light

Window

Candle

The Noah Webster House has been an invaluable tool to do historic research to create a composition that is accurate to the era in which Noah lived. The house has his desk, some clocks and other apparatus he used throughout his life. Thanks to Christopher Dobbs, the executive director of the Noah Webster House for allowing us to have access to the appropriate materials.

The Webster childhood home is now a museum where visitors can see copies of his spelling book, grammar manual and dictionaries. The museum also displays china, glassware, a desk, and two clocks owned by the adult Webster.

The third vision, Vision::Recapture, has an intent to evoke the importance of Noah Webster in our American Heritage. This vision will manifest itself in a commissioned painting of Noah Webster. The process involved will require the input from concerned Americans. The final commission painting will be derived from initial sketches and digital compositions. Feedback from the community is essential for this vision’s success throughout the process.