B-17G Sentimental Journey
Commemorative Air Force B-17G
Sentimental Journey
Sentimental Journey
This was a one of a kind commissioned piece for one of my more discerning clients. A faithful replica of the B-17G Sentimental Journey. Restored, maintained and operated by the Commemorative Air Force and based at Falcon Field airport in Mesa Arizona, this recognizable image was chosen to adorn the aptly named aircraft.
Sentimental Journey, named for the popular 1944 song written by Les Brown and Ben Homer with lyrics by Bud Green, was adorned with one of the most famous images of its day. Photographer Frank Powolny is credited with capturing this image of actress Betty Grable.
This swimsuit photo made her the number one Pin-Up girl during the Second World War, and later appeared in Life magazine’s issue entitled “100 Photos that Changed the World.” The famed actress, dancer, singer had an insurance policy for her legs totaling $100,000.
A stunning image in its own right, the artwork was complimented by the beautiful red white and dark blue lettering. the perfect combination on its polished aluminum hull.
This particular piece remains one of my favorite panels, not only for the fact that I thoroughly enjoyed painting this iconic image, but because it holds such fond memories of watching the Sentimental Journey fly overhead as it departed from Falcon Field airport just 2 miles from my old Mesa Arizona home.
