Brenham Resident Donates Portrait Honoring the Memory and Heroes of 9/11

In an act of patriotism and deep respect for history and family, Roy Dean of Brenham, Texas, has donated a remarkable piece of art inspired by the events of September 11, 2001. His brother originally commissioned this painting around 2002, after a vivid dream and sketching his vision upon waking from the dream. Compelled by this dream, he commissioned Out of the Ashes by Kenneth R. Turner, to bring the image to life.

For years, the painting was displayed in their parents' home in Vidor, Texas. Two additional drawings were created - one resides in the George H.W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum in College Station, Texas, while the other was presented to the Fire Chief of New York City, a fitting tribute to those who risked everything in the wake of the attacks.

As a first responder himself, Mr. Dean understands the sacrifices made by those on the front lines. Coming from a family with a strong tradition of service - his father having served in the Korean War - he felt a calling to ensure this piece of art reached a wider audience. Dean states, "I hope that young people who see the painting will be moved to ask questions, learn about the significance of 9/11, and appreciate the countless individuals who played a role in rescue, recovery, and healing."

Roy Deans standing next to donated painting

Roy Dean stands next to donated painting

9/11 memorial painting - painting depicts beams of sunlight shining down past elements and symbolism of the attack on 9/11. Fire among clouds, the Washington monument, charred trees, and the fragment remains of the twin towers. The bottom of the painting has a crowd of people, recognizable as first responders, firefighters, the president, business professionals, families, children... people. As you look up to see more of the crowd standing in front of the rubble, you see many representations of people, not just first responders and business professionals but everyday people. At about a third of the way up from the bottom of the painting and just above the crowd, you see firefighters raising the flag of the United States on top of the rubble along with the deceased being carried away from the wreckage. The destructive scene, which at first appears to be the focus of the painting, gives way to the beams of sunlight, directing your attention to the people and provides a sense of hope for a future that remembers the past.

Donated 9/11 memorial painting

Brenham City Manager - Carolyn Miller, artwork donor - Roy Deans, Mayor of Brenham - Atwood Kenjura, Fire Chief - Mark Donovan stand in council chambers with the donated 9/11 memorial painting

City Manager - Carolyn Miller | Artwork Donor - Roy Deans | Mayor - Atwood Kenjura | Fire Chief - Mark Donovan

For Dean, this donation is not just about remembering those who lost their lives but also recognizing the feet on the ground - the firefighters, paramedics, police officers, priests, and volunteers who spent endless hours tending to the injured, clearing debris, and offering comfort amid the devastation. Mayor Atwood Kenjura said, "Roy’s kindness in donating this painting to our community helps us continue a legacy of remembrance, ensuring that the heroism of that day is never forgotten. His donation serves as both a tribute and an invitation - to honor history, respect sacrifice, and inspire future generations to remember the heroes of 9/11."