Louisiana folk artist Hank Holland is exhibiting "Freedom Lies Here," an art installation, at Joseph Sisters Gallery (JSG) in downtown Leesville through May 9. Holland painted a plain wooden casket with an American flag on the top, and decorated each of the four sides. One end names the branches of the military, one simply says God Bless America, one side is a colorful folk art painting of Veterans Cemetery, and one side is the symbolic yellow ribbon. Holland said he was inspired to create the piece as a thank you to service men and women who have made the ultimate sacrifice. Also noted was the proximity of the city of Leesville to Fort Polk, and the many military families who have settled in the region. "Freedom Lies Here" is a not-for profit piece of work, and one of a kind. There is a slit over the letters that spell out "Freedom Lies Here" where visitors can place letters, notes, photos, memories, thank yous to soldiers, and personal or family stories. The piece will travel for one year so people nationwide can add their thoughts and feelings at every location. The casket will be opened only once by Holland, who will transfer the messages and photos to a book. He hopes that eventually the art piece will find a permanent home at the Smithsonian. The proceeds of the book will benefit the Wounded Warriors Project. Holland said the piece is "an opportunity to share thankfulness to soldiers, memories, or remembrances." Scott Kincade, owner of JSG, said the piece has evoked intense emotional response from soldiers visiting the gallery, and also gallery patrons. Kincade said letters or notes can be brought to the gallery, mailed, or emailed, and all will be placed inside the special casket. "This a a powerful piece," said Kincade. "You can feel the mood in the room change when someone comes in and sees it. We are honored to be the second destination for 'Freedom Lies Here.'" JSG is located at 303 E. Texas St. in historic downtown Leesville. The gallery is open 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Friday, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. on Saturday, or by appointment. JSG is featuring a video of Hank discussing the special project on their website. Visit http://www.josephsistersgallery.com, Facebook/The Joseph Sisters Gallery; or http://www.hankhollandfolkart.com, Facebook/Baby Jane Studios.

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Freedom Lies Here on view at Joseph Sisters Gallery