In
January of 1990, Ron Marlett's younger brother Rich suggested creating
a publishing company that would feature posters and limited edition
prints of Ron's military art. Ron began work on illustrating the Second
Battle of Fort Wagner. The Union attack occurred on July 18, 1863 and
was led by Colonel Shaw in front of the 54th Massachusetts Volunteer
Infantry, the first African American regiment mustered into service
during the Civil War. The painting Assault on Battery Wagner
was completed on July 18, 1990, and the sales of the limited edition
prints were brisk thanks in part by a previously released war film
called Glory (1989) which
popularized the battle. Another event that helped sell Ron's prints was
the indirect endorsement of General Colin Powell who displayed his
limited edition print prominently in his office while serving as the
Joint Chief of Staff. Posters of this painting are available at Ron Marlett's Store
|