McNaughton Fine Art

McNaughton and Troy talk about Obama and Socialism

2012-05-19T11:09:00.000-07:00

Troy has been wanting to debate the content of my paintings and my assertions regarding Socialism for a long time. I have agreed to discuss it with him on my Blog. It's difficult to simply throw out one sentence antidotes to heavy questions, therefore I have done my best to explain my positions. I don't expect us to convert each other, but it makes for a good mind bender.

Troy:

Okay Jon, where are the details? What Obama policies are unconstitutional? Which policies are hurting the country? And why? I've done some investigating on your website and can't find the details. I've asked these questions here and received no answers.  

Here is my response:

I believe that Obama has committed many unconstitutional acts since becoming President. He is certainly not the first president to do this, but we will focus our attention here on President Obama.

On my website, under “What Has Obama Done” (1) I have only listed a few of his unconstitutional acts as president. I will attempt here to explain myself further:

Before Marbury v. Madison in 1803, the Supreme Court could not mandate law and could only take a position on whether laws and actions were deemed constitutional. Now, unless a lawsuit is brought to the court and they feel it is worthy of their time, the court rarely makes judgments on the unconstitutional acts of Congress or the President. (2) To assume anything is constitutional just because the high court has not ruled against it is naïve.

Fortunately, the Supreme Court took the case of 28 states that have filed lawsuits against Obamacare for its individual mandate. This is unprecedented in the history of our country. They are proving that the mandate is not a tax and it is in fact a “penalty” for not complying. (3)This is the most egregious of his acts as president. Forcing our citizens to purchase a product with penalty of noncompliance is a blatant disregard for the Constitution. Not only was Obamacare not approved by the majority of Americans and pushed through the Senate, it was also not given enough time to properly read what was in it before passing. (4) It has created an environment of fear, which has prevented many businesses from hiring additional employees and many have concluded that it has extended the recession. (5) Also, there is plenty of evidence that it will reduce the quality and accessibility of healthcare (15) in the long run and lead to a trillion dollars in additional national debt. It is Obama’s greatest “achievement” toward leading us down the road to Socialism. To suspect that a new bureaucracy within the US government will be efficiently managed is a fantasy. Medicare, Social Security, Medicaid, and numerous government programs are the continuous example of poorly managed federal government. (6)

Also, the evidence is mounting that Obama was in fact born in Kenya. In my original list I did not include this because the evidence was circumstantial at best. But things have changed. (7) If this is resolutely confirmed, it will be one of the greatest lies ever perpetrated upon the American people. Whether it is considered important or not, it is a direct prerequisite of our Constitution, that he be a naturally born citizen. People have tried to ridicule this notion since day one, but Obama has done nothing to resolve this until last year when he released the long form of his BC. Since then, it has been proven to be a forgery and there has been additional evidence, which has shown there is reason to doubt its authenticity. (8)

We also have the appointment of various “Czars”, which have great power in his administration without any congressional oversight. That is brow raising in itself, but many of his chosen appointees have Communist sympathies and radical ideologies. (9)

Obama attacked Libya without consulting Congress to declare war. We were not being attacked by Libya and it was an unprovoked act of aggression. (10)

Buying GM was out of bounds. When government decides who the winners and losers are without regards to a company’s bondholders you have crossed the line. If GM has been allowed to go through bankruptcy court it would have been bought up by other car companies, rehired many of the workers and come out a better company. (11)

Signing the NDAA. I was concerned when Romney stated he would have signed it as well. All though it was necessary to pass a military budget, the disregard for the Fourth Amendment is stunning. Where is the Supreme Court on this one? (12)

Everything about big government spending is unconstitutional because in goes outside the bounds of limited government. (13) I could go on, but for sake of time I’ll stop here. (14)

After you respond, I will move to the next topic: The pros or cons of Socialism.

1) http://www.mcnaughtonart.com/artwork/view_zoom/?artpiece_id=379

2) http://www.enotes.com/judicial-branch-reference/changes-judicial-branch

(3) http://www.statesman.com/opinion/insight/smu-law-professor-why-obamacare-is-constitutional-1864328.html

http://www.newsmax.com/Murdock/healthcare-obamacare/2011/02/18/id/386576

(4) http://www.newsmax.com/WayneAllynRoot/Obamacare-Pelosi-Supreme-Court-Sessions/2012/04/05/id/435003

(5) http://www.economics21.org/commentary/obamacare-recession

http://www.candidatebriefing.com/economy-and-jobs/

(6) http://knowledge.wharton.upenn.edu/article.cfm?articleid=2023

http://www.aapsonline.org/index.php/site/article/medicaid_is_mismanaged_tax_dollars

http://webcache.googleusercontent.com/search?q=cache:ocJUqIFUv0EJ:oversight.house.gov/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/4-5-11-Subcommittee-on-Health-Care-District-of-Columbia-Census-and-the-National-Archives-Hearing-Transcript.pdf+government+reform+mismanagement&cd=4&hl=en&ct=clnk&gl=us&client=firefox-a

https://docs.google.com/viewer?a=v&q=cache:GYE_DG5__44J:oversight.house.gov/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/4-25-12-Staff-Report-Uncovering-Waste-Fraud-and-Abuse-in-the-Medicaid-Program.pdf+mismanagement+in+medicaid&hl=en&gl=us&pid=bl&srcid=ADGEEShnzcA6eG5Hw6ryJFWq7tORcxECiUUkw_azDAR1lSYyEtlME7_D9dc6TQ7IyIw4fMlcccFnrJofMiPF1QgkPuAA5i4t8RpqYUH7nA_4HRxRqsKa45mH8RahI3csOfZU_PzfNW2S&sig=AHIEtbQ9rEllDL-S9F5D1PO-PA5gHNTVSw

(7) http://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2012/mar/1/sheriff-arpaio-obama-birth-certificate-forgery/?page=all

(8) http://www.breitbart.com/Big-Journalism/2012/05/18/Media-Refuses-Coverage-Obama-Kenya-Lit-Agency

(9) http://townhall.com/columnists/kenklukowski/2009/06/15/senior_democrat_says_obamas_czars_unconstitutional/page/full/

http://www.westernjournalism.com/exclusive-investigative-reports/obama-surrounds-himself-with-the-most-extreme-appointees-in-american-history/

https://docs.google.com/viewer?a=v&q=cache:4h-fuEZ4WOQJ:www.judicialwatch.org/files/documents/2011/czar-report-09152011.pdf+list+of+obama+controversial+czars&hl=en&gl=us&pid=bl&srcid=ADGEESi4nNqeZ6H2K4apApAi9ZBfsMygOXFE1hM0j4nqyj4IAS-xG3SfFbjWZT8ErKZhB54ghQ0UIK0_9qiGWH8jRWJn76QuQeE8n8Gcf1XrcpFdpzd6uxp-blkdqjqoNfz88HXzcdCb&sig=AHIEtbRJS33E187p4oIY0hvHv3gCCoDVxg

(10) http://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2011/jun/15/obamas-unconstitutional-libyan-war/

(11) http://www.investorguide.com/article/7106/the-rebirth-of-general-motors-gm/

http://business.time.com/2010/12/08/did-the-auto-bailout-break-the-constitution/

http://www.autonews.com/article/20120214/OEM02/120219936

(12) http://www.infowars.com/romney-would-sign-ndaa/

(13) http://amendusconstitution.com/blog/?p=413

(14) http://dailycaller.com/2011/12/04/president-obamas-top-10-constitutional-violations/3/

(15) http://www.humanevents.com/article.php?id=50221

Talking with a Canadian about Socialism, etc...

2012-05-18T10:08:00.000-07:00

Here is part of a conversation I'm having with Nathan from Canada. His questions are good and I hope to discuss more with him.

Nathan

First of all Jon, I would like to thank you for responding to my comment. Second, I would like to state that I don't appreciate the fact that some of the people who don't agree with your politics are attacking you personally instead of fully explaining what it is they're getting at. I do respect you as a human being, and I admire your technical abilities as an artist. And I think its cool that you paint for what you believe in, I think more people should do that. I'm not out to prove you wrong, but to provoke thought and dialogue. Its the only way you or I, a Conservative or a Liberal , can truly explore and validate our own convictions. 

Jon

I appreciate the kind of debate you are offering. This is why I am taking the time to respond to you, because you seem open-minded.

Nathan

To answer your first question, I don't think that people always literally use the name of capitalism in their conquest of land, resources, freedom, or commerce - but I do think that the type of Capitalism we see today does in fact provoke violent relationships, and maintain imbalances of power.

Jon

The kind of capitalism we see today is in fact evil. It is called “crony capitalism.” [Special interest groups making backroom deals to gain power in Washington.] This has led to much misery in the world. I believe many wars and injustices are caused by such insidious villains; and this is not just Democrat or Republican.

Nathan

That doesn't necessarily mean that I'm suggesting that 'communism' is the answer. People often assume that you are either 'this,' or 'that,' when it comes to politics, but I would like for us all to get beyond that dichotomy. I can understand your sentiment towards Privatization as the alternative to Government Control. I also believe in small government, and I don't think that the Government should have a hand in every aspect of our lives, (if any.)

Jon

It sounds like you believe in free market and freedom, but at the same time want to open the door for Socialism? I believe capitalism is by pure definition-- freedom. Communism is about control. Socialism is between the two. The free exchange of goods without government intervention (capitalism) leads to not only the economic improvement of society but the development of mankind in general. Without the self interest of the individual you can not motivate a society to improve her self. This is not the kind of self interest that destroys others, but seeks to achieve one’s own ambition, sell at a profit and bring something of value to everyone. History is on the side of this.

Now, as for the cure…The difference between the kind of capitalism used throughout the world versus what we have in the

is the Constitution that I always talk about.

America

’s form of government was different than any other in world history. Why do you think

America

has become so prosperous and successful in the past? Our current prosperity is an illusion. When you consider our staggering debts, this is not a model for greatness. When our country began to stray from the original tenants of the Constitution, defined as limited, Republic form of government, we opened the door to corruption. Originally the constitution was supposed to protect the citizens from any kind of abuse that may have occurred under capitalism by protecting the rights of the individual. Our current form of government is more Socialistic in that it focuses on the rights of the collective. We have become a democratic socialized country. Now we have repeatedly amended it and blown so many holes through it as to allow sleazy politicians and special interest groups to get their way. We’ve introduced socialist programs that have sapped the life blood of our country (We could write pages on that too.) We now have multitudes of Socialists claiming, “See…capitalism doesn’t work! Try our way.” There is indisputable evidence that most of the changes that have derailed our country were orchestrated by Communist and Socialist activists since the early twentieth century. The solution is to return to the limited government that worked so well. Let the free market do its thing. Let “We the People” do our thing and keep government out of the way, except where individual rights are being trampled. Allow the states to make their own decisions not expressly defined in the Constitution. You do that and NOTHING can compete against a capitalistic society.

Nathan

But we do have healthcare here in

Canada

, and although its not perfect, (what is?) it does work fine. I think that this ObamaCare thing is blown out of proportion. Someday, I would hope that healthcare would be a worldwide human right. The main problem with healthcare here, (besides wait-times which are a minor issue in the grand scope of things,) is that it drives up the taxes on products like Alcohol, and Cigarettes. But this makes sense to me. And Canadais just as Capitalist as the United States I feel that there are larger issues to focus on. I see more people slamming Obama in the so-called liberal media for ObamaCare then I did for Bush's War on Iraq, (that was considered an illegal/criminal action by the rest of the world.) I think that this could be the result of people propagating against Obama in general, because he is a Democrat, and the Government has been Republican for so long.

Jon

Canada has had their socialized healthcare since 1984. The result is long wait times which can be life threatening. A famous quote by a Canadian Dr. Brian Day, "This is a country in which dogs can get a hip replacement in under a week and in which humans can wait two-to-three years." http://www.nytimes.com/2006/02/28/international/americas/28canada.html?_r=1&ei=5090&en=ad12dcee61e8b584&ex=1298782800&partner=rssuserland&emc=rss&pagewanted=print

I would read the following article why socialized healthcare is not a good idea.http://www.city-journal.org/html/17_3_canadian_healthcare.html

I don’t deny that our healthcare needs some fixing to help with cost reduction, but to hand it over to the federal government with its history of bungling bureaucratic agencies was shortsighted.

I also view this differently in how you call healthcare a “worldwide human right.” I view “rights” as something that is unalienable and God given. They are something you are born with—such as the right to life, liberty, and pursuit of property. Not something that must be taken from one person to guarantee the comfort of another, which is what occurs under a socialized healthcare system. Of course, society should consider the needs and healthcare of the needy. This is called charity. Our country would be in far better condition today without the welfare programs. http://www.cato.org/pubs/policy_report/cpr-18n6-1.html

You said, “I see more people slamming Obama in the so-called liberal media for ObamaCare then I did for Bush's War on Iraq, (that was considered an illegal/criminal action by the rest of the world.) “ I’m not sure what you’ve been watching, but the mainstream media is certainly in Obama’s court here in the US. Bush was crucified by the media when he was in office.

The anger against Obama isn’t because he’s Democrat. Conservatives are upset at the way he’s pushed through his agenda of Obamacare and used failed economic policies that have literally brought our country to its knees.

Talking with a Liberal Artist?

2012-05-16T14:57:00.001-07:00

I had a pleasant conversation with a liberal art student…

Sarah
You must be the only painter who has this ultra conservative message behind your work. artists are known to be open-minded and against people who support money hungry, conservative, so-called "christians". you, sir, would be laughed out of my art school. i think it's time you "wake up".

Jon
Do you think I would care what "art school" thinks? This is a war of ideas and I do not agree with the liberal idealogy

Sarah

I would if i were you. if you call yourself an artist you should hope that students would look up to your art and the message you are conveying through your work. that's ok if you do not agree with liberal america, but your subject matter is full of lies and is against what modern day americastands for. painting our president in a false matter as if it were truth is wrong and fuels the fire of ignorance. art students question authority and want to shine a light on good causes and why we should fight against lies, ignorance, and hypocrisy.

Jon

Do you and your art student friends stand for modern day

America

? Do you believe conservatives stand for lies, ignorance and hypocrisy? If you go back just two generations you will find that the majority were the conservatives you are referring to. And you are telling me to wake up?

Sarah

Indeed, i am telling you to "wake up". the conservative movement is so against what this nation stands for: equal opportunity, equal rights, fair taxes, fair trial, and accepting those who differ in beliefs. americahas come a long way since it was founded. i believe washington has become corrupt and is out for wealth and greed. washingtonhas many politicians who are out to only benefit themselves and i find it atrocious. this movement does not support the better of man, woman and child but corporate greed and control over middle america. fox news feeds the public lies and is TOTALLY hypocritical. they fund the tea party movement and are a solely right-wing based media and corporation. why is it that they are the only network calling every other media the "liberal media"? is it because they spread more truth behind the stories they report? i stand for justice, equal rights, health care coverage for EVERY american, regulating corporations and raising taxes where they need to be raised so my family along with millions of others do not have to pay extra for millionaires and billionaires who have an unfair tax cut. mitt romney pays a lower tax rate than my parents and we can thank conservative republicans for that. i believe obama does care about the common good of the american people and we need that in the white house.

Jon

Sounds like Occupy Wall Street to me. There should only be equal rights for everyone. Never should people be allowed equality of things. You work for that. When the government gets in the business of spreading the wealth around you never have liberty because somebody has to have it taken from them in order to give to another. Such societies never survive because they lose the incentive to succeed. This is EXACTLY why Obama should not be in the White House. If Socialism is what you want, move to

Greece

Sarah

That's not socialism. i believe jesus taught spreading the wealth to the less fortunate would get the wealthy into heaven. ("the meek shall inherit the earth") equal rights does not constitute giving up material things but those who are being given an unfair tax break do not deserve to give the middle class their burden. obama stands for equality in the hospital and in the eyes of the law. that is what the people of the american nation want and believe in. having health care and an equal tax system is not equivalent to socialism.

Jon

Government run healthcare is not Socialism? Do you think we have an equal tax system? How much do you pay on your Income Tax? By the way, Jesus did teach us to give to the poor. I don't remember Him telling us to give it to the government so they could do it. Socialism is the fast track to Communism and that is evil. Why can't you see that? I may have to post this conversation on my blog so more people can see the insanity of this.

Sarah

What i pay in taxes is none of your business and i'm not asking you what you pay for taxes. having universal health care is a good idea for people who cannot afford health care and are not given the option through their job. our tax system is not equal and it is not fair. if people like the "1%" can pay a lower tax rate than those who make a small fraction of their income is un-christian because that does take away from the poor. the poor fund wars, they fight the wars, while the wealthy and well-connected have an unfair advantage. clearly you do not recognize the kind of socialism you preach against. the socialism you may be referring to that is evil in the soviet union, cubaor china.

Jon

No that's Communism. I'm talking Socialism. Democratic Socialism...which is where we are headed. Do you remember the Bolshevik revolutionaries that were lead under Lenin? They wanted everything you just stated. Didn't end pretty. You have lost your way in this country and forgot what it was that made Americagreat. Greecegot everything they wanted too, until the money ran out. By the way, I didn't expect you to tell me what you pay in taxes because I have a hunch you don't pay any.

Sarah

Right, because you clearly know me so well. i do pay for myself. i do my taxes on my own. i am a full-time student and i work hard at my job. i get good grades and i hope to be able to live off my artwork someday, too. i think you are mistaken for believing we are headed in that direction. this is the USA, the government is established enough where that would not happen if an individual in washingtonwanted it to, even if it were the president. we are long over due for universal health care, period and i cannot see how people are so against it. it would bring the cost of health insurance companies down to compete and it would ensure people can get help they need and not worry about how much a visit to the doctor will cost. have you forgotten about why we are in this mass debt to begin with? the last republican we had in office screwed us and now we are all paying for it.

Jon

Hmmm. Bush added 4 trillion in 8 years and Obama added 5 trillion in 3 and a half years. And I don't think you have studied the ramification of this Obamacare. It will increase our debt by another trillion dollars and everyone agrees it will lower the quality of healthcare. The majority of Americans did not want it and Obama pushed it through when he had control of the Senate. He never tried to push through a balanced budget when he had the chance. I'm glad you are working hard to find a career as an artist and that you pay income taxes. Do you pay 30% to the federal government? Why should some have to and others do not? You don't see us headed in the direction of Europe? Why not? We are doing what they did. Sarah, when you and your art buddies get together and talk about how great Obama is remember this: No party lasts forever and when the money runs out its over.

Is it "Subtelty" or "Satire?"

2012-05-15T12:57:00.000-07:00

Someone asked me the following question on Facebook. I wonder if they really wanted to hear the answer.

Michael Kelly

If you could honestly explain to me the "subtlety" of your work, I'd be intrigued. You call Stephen Colbert's piece on your work a smear campaign, but isn't that what your work is doing to Obama? Your argument is flawed because you are doing exactly what you believe others are doing to you. If you could explain to me why your work should be considered differently than political satire, I'd love to hear it.

Jon McNaughton

The difference is I am going after Obama for his policies that are unconstitutional and hurting the country. The left goes after me for simply speaking out through my art and don't address the issues of the painting. They take my words out of context and try to smear me personally. The subtlety lies in the content. Corbert never addressed the real meaning of the paintings he discussed and most all his audience thinks they understand, as I assume you do as well.

Corbert is a funny guy. but the paintings by themselves are not funny. The only ones laughing are the liberals. Satire is created for the sole perpose of finding humor in the serious. The purpose of my art is to communicate.

Close your eyes if you wish, or do some investigating on my website.

Interesting Conversation

2012-05-10T11:05:00.000-07:00

I had an interesting dialogue with someone offended by my paintings with Barack Obama. Here is our conversation on Facebook:

Jeanne:

I feel so sorry for you. Living a bitter life, being a bitter man. Oh what a small mind you have.

Jon:

My love for God and my country makes me bitter and ignorant? Thank you for visiting.

Jeanne:

Your love for God should make you positive, you create bitterness in your work. God is all loving, all forgiving, and a gift of peace. God world is one of acceptance and love for everyone.

Jon:

Like when he condemned the Pharisees and overturned the moneychangers. Sometimes you have to pick a side instead of sitting on the fence and claiming "peace and love." Sure, we love others, but it doesn't mean we surrender to what is wrong. I saw your site...you believe in gay marriage. In your mind it is all about peace and love regardless of the consequences.

Jeanne:

Wars are never won, they just hurt people. Surrender-to what you think is wrong, why are you not marching in the streets, why do you contiue to support the closed mind. I am not on the fence, the forces of change will be. History is the past. What are you doing to change the furture. Painting for money.......now that is taking a stand indeed.

Jon:

Capitalism has blessed you with everything comfortable you enjoy. What am I doing to change the future? I'm doing everything I can to stop Socialism from infecting America. I'm not big on war, so your preaching to the choir. Although I will DEFEND our liberties till my dying breath, your philosophies are misguided and will only lead to tyranny.

Jeanne:

I work for my money, my children adults, both work in the service of others social worker, sheriffs dept. Nothing is fair and equal and never will be. Protecting health, the aging and children is not socialism, any more than giving money away to past presdients that don't need it but ask for it to maintain there style of living. If the congress and senate paid for there own health care etc. Would that be socialism, cause they sure are living it now

Jon:

You don't understand my paintings because you have not done any investigating. Your assumptions about me are completely off. Until more people in this country see the federal government as the problem instead of the cure, the worse our situation will become.

Jeanne:

Your painting, point the finger at one person whom is black. Your put everyone else in the background............It's like where's Waldo find the Bushes. All forms of art are important to the artist. How you allow the world to see them, often allows us not to see. Do you writre your senators, do you assit in local elections, do you hind and paint. Do you really care that goverment is over sized, or is it just that you profit because of it?

Jon:

Your questions are assumptive and wrong in each case. You imply racism because I painted Obama and he is black? You hint that I am motivated by money and make subtle sarcastic remarks. You are the very thing you claim to disdain. I engaged you in a conversation because I thought you would be rational. Good-bye.

What did John Adams mean: "We Are Not A Christian Nation?"

2012-04-24T18:02:00.003-07:00

Woody Walker wrote the following on my Facebook:

“The Treaty of Tripoli (Treaty of Peace and Friendship between the United States of America and the Bey and Subjects of Tripoli of Barbary) was the first treaty concluded between the United States of America and Tripolitania, signed at Tripoli on November 4, 1796 and at Algiers (for a third-party witness) on January 3, 1797. It was submitted to the Senate by President John Adams, receiving ratification unanimously from the U.S. Senate on June 7, 1797 and signed by Adams, taking effect as the law of the land on June 10, 1797.  Art. 11.

As the Government of the United States of America is not, in any sense, founded on the Christian religion,—as it has in itself no character of enmity against the laws, religion, or tranquility, of Mussulmen [Muslims],—and as the said States never entered into any war or act of hostility against any Mahometan [Muslim] nation, it is declared by the parties that no pretext arising from religious opinions shall ever produce an interruption of the harmony existing between the two countries. George Washington First President !!!!”

My response:

Our issues at that time were with the pirates of the Barbary Coast and not the Muslim nations or Tripoli. As Adams stated, it is true, we are not a theocracy, as many of the Muslim countries were at that time and if we had been they would have not wanted to make treaty with the US. Because we signed this treaty does not mean that our country is not founded on Judeo-Christian values as evidenced throughout the symbology of our early currency, structures and symbols. And innumerable quotes of the early Founders. The citizens of the United States at that time were overwhelmingly Christian, so he obviously wasn't referring to that either.

To try to use these words of John Adams from a treaty with Tripoli as proof that our country is without Christian roots is a weak argument. John Adams also said the following:

“The general principles on which the fathers achieved independence were the general principles of Christianity. I will avow that I then believed, and now believe, that those general principles of Christianity are as eternal and immutable as the existence and attributes of God. “ (Thomas Jefferson, The Writings of Thomas Jefferson (Washington D. C.: The Thomas Jefferson Memorial Association, 1904), Vol. XIII, p. 292-294. In a letter from John Adams to Thomas Jefferson on June 28, 1813)

My paintings do not promote that we are a theocracy or even a Christian government. My paintings promote that our Constitution was divinely inspired. I believe in the literal interpretation of the First Amendment--government should keep its nose out of religion. (Not protect the people from being offended by religion.) You can choose to accept or reject that as you wish.

Ron Paul or Mitt Romney?

2012-04-14T14:25:00.000-07:00

I am a Constitutionalist, but I am also a realist. I would prefer to eliminate the Federal Reserve, go back to the gold standard, and pull back the government bureaucracy, regulation, taxes and spending. In fact, I would prefer a United States that existed prior to 1913 before Wilson set the wheels in motion to create the social democratic welfare state that exists today. America has dug a hole so big it seems almost impossible to fix it. But I believe it can be done.

Here is the wisdom: it is not going to happen in a single election. It is not going to happen this year or even the next. It may take decades of elections, debate, and informing our fellow Americans to gradually sway the popular opinion of the majority—but it can be done.

This is more than a battle of Democrats versus Republicans. It is a battle against an ideology of government, economics and social values. It is defining what we want as Americans. Many people today focus on the acquirement of things, even if it means extending their credit limit. It is a “give it to me now” society that is reflected in both our people and government.

So what is to be done?

In recent years there has been a push toward a constitutionally pure government. The Tea Party conservatives and people like Ron Paul have created awareness among a growing number of Americans. But I am afraid that there is a pervasive attitude among some of these fellow patriots that it is either all or nothing. Some have said that a vote for Romney is no better than a vote for Obama. Is that really true? One it the fast track and the other the slow track to insolvency. (by not eliminating the Fed) But the country is not ready for a sudden reversal. It will take time. It took the left about one hundred years of patiently waiting to get where we are today. Should we not be patient and careful as we try to save our country? Why can’t we use faith and prayer and hard work, do our best to awaken the American spirit among our people? The polarizing effect of Obama will only strengthen this awareness as people begin to see the errors of Socialism.

If Mitt Romney were to be elected, (He's the most likely to get the GOP nomination.) he said he would take action to repeal Obamacare. He would also loosen the federal government’s hold on small businesses and create an environment to help revive the economy. These are big steps to reducing the size of government. Realistically, Ron Paul does not yet have the support to win. But when the country is ready, someone like Ron Paul will step forward and lead us back to true liberty.

Don’t lose hope! We may not win the battle, but we can still win the war.

What is a True Christian?

2012-04-08T08:01:00.002-07:00

In today's world, Christianity has become diverse with over 20,000 different Christian denominations; many of which profess completely different interpretations of the Bible. The Apostle Paul taught, "One Lord, one faith, one baptism." (Ephesians 4:5) So here we are, many of us trying our best to come to Jesus and be saved. How are we to know what "truth" is and where to go to find it?

In the parable of the lost sheep, Jesus spoke of how the shepherd left the flock to find the one. Each of us is important to our Lord. If we will call out to Him, He will find us. We should not put our trust in man, but in our Father who is in Heaven. If we will do our best in this life to embrace what we believe to be true based on the words of the Master, I believe much of the misunderstandings on points of doctrine will be resolved in the world to come. God is merciful to those who love Him.

In my experience I have met with many groups of people as I have traveled. I have come to know the Catholics, the Baptists, the Presbyterians, the Evangelicals, the Jehovah Witnesses, the Mormons (this is my faith), the Mennonites, and many more. One common feature I have seen in every denomination that professes Christ is that there are truly good people who love Jesus and wish to emulate Him in there lives. But there are also those who are filled with hypocrisy and find fault in everyone else but themselves. I'm not mentioning this to point fingers...it is simply a fact of the world we live in.

Anyone can call themselves a Christian. But when has the acceptance of others ever been a prerequisite to entering the Lord's Kingdom? I believe the only thing that matters is how we stand in the Lord's eyes. In my painting, the suffering Jesus looks back as if to say, "What will you do? Will you stand as a witness of me?"

I believe God will judge us based on what is in our heart and our actions. It is true that we are saved by the grace of Jesus if we come to Him and repent. But to be numbered among the true Disciples of Christ we must truly love Him. "If you love me, keep my commandments." (John 14:15) And then He said, "Thou shalt love the Lord with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind. This is the first commandment. And the second is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thy self." (Matt 19:37-39) As humans, we often fall short, but if we strive to be more like Him and express that love through our service to others, we will be good Christians.

There is one more element that I believe qualifies one as a "true Christian." I like the scripture, "perfect love casteth out fear." (1 John 4:18) As a Christian, we must not fear. Even if it means that we must stand alone. And after we have done all that we can do, we must continue to stand. "And ye shall be hated of all men for my name's sake: but he that endureth to the end shall be saved." (Matt 10:22) A true Christian's love for Jesus Christ will motivate him to stand up for his beliefs, to love others unconditionally, and to be an advocate for truth and righteousness...regardless of the consequences. That we may find the strength do so is my reason for painting this picture.

Interviews with the Left

2012-03-31T16:22:00.000-07:00

I was recently interviewed on Radiowest out of Salt Lake City. I was informed that most of their audience were liberal to moderate in their political views and that the host would have a lot of questions for me.

Indeed it was! They were good questions and I could tell that the host had carefully crafted them to get a reaction from me.

“Do you think Obama is trying to destroy America?”

“What is your definition of art?”

“Do you hate President Obama?”

The questions were numerous, but I felt comfortable answering them as I spoke from my heart about why I painted this and other paintings. I was surprised to find out later that after our interview they continued for another 15 minutes as two “art critics” took the mike and offered their professional evaluation of my work. It made me think of how absurd it would be to have a couple of rap singers critique a country music singer for their music and content. Of course no person was there to counter their criticisms.

If I had to do it again would I do the interview? YES. If one person within the sound of my voice gained some common sense, it would be worth it.

The link: http://radiowest.kuer.org/post/32912-art-politics-and-paintings-jon-mcnaughton?ft=1&f=

Great Article About McNaughton's New Painting

2012-03-22T18:49:00.005-07:00

Overmanwarrior's Wisdom

Official Site of Rich Hoffman. Help get the word out! Send to a friend.

One Nation Under Socialism: The latest treasure by Jon McNaughton

Sometimes you have to call things the way you see them, and art is the preferred method of reaching the minds of the many. For many, many years the good of us have slowly watched our very lives gradually be eroded away into a cesspool of mediocrity and corruption. The grand statement as to how far our cultural identification has fallen can be seen in the Casey Anthony verdict in the summer of 2011 where she was found not guilty by a jury of her peers. That particular jury, like many these days have shown that they have lost their moral compass and can no longer can tell right from wrong.

The thieves of our society have capitalized on this naiveté and they exist in both parties. They have thrived by casting our culture into a purgatory of indecision and mundane confusion. We now live in an age where people no longer think, and thus, can no longer stand on the firm ground of their own convictions.

But not everyone is paralyzed by the invisible confines of guilt nurtured by sheer ignorance, and blind trust in some spectral “official” who does the thinking for the masses in favor of mainstream entertainment. And in such time artists rise to the surface to percolate a reality that has long been subdued under neglect, and such is the work of Jon McNaughton, the painter that I recently reviewed as being far more important to our modern culture than William Etty was to the progressive Victorians of New York who went to great measures to lay the foundations of detriment our American culture is currently experiencing. You can read that review here:

http://overmanwarrior.wordpress.com/2012/02/07/jon-mcnaughton-versus-william-etty-tradition-challenges-progressive-nudity-in-art-and-culture/

Jon McNaughton ignited a firestorm of controversy recently by painting a portrait of President Obama burning the Constitution. Critics have proclaimed that such an action is preposterous, and over-the-top. After all, didn’t the President swear to uphold the Constitution? Isn’t McNaughton declaring in this new painting shown below that the President of the United States is openly neglecting that duty?

Well, of course McNaughton is doing that, because as an artist he is not observing the world around him based on press releases, double-talk, and media manipulation. He is observing the world around him and painting what he sees. Anyone with a clear mind can look at the actions of President Obama and see what he is up to even if the President and his hordes of apologists declare otherwise. Obama is attempting to destroy the United States Constitution though his actions. It was only on March 16, 2012 that the president signed the Executive Order: National Defense Resources Preparedness which is just another extension toward the NDAA Act signed into law on New Years Eve in 2011. The combination of those laws is to detain American citizens just for being in the way of the political power that’s in charge.

But to what end? What is the intention of these presidential acts that show they intend to arrest American citizens and will impose laws without the respect and protections offered by the American Constitution? Well, if you listen to the words of The Earth System Governance Project you will see that there is a push for a one world government designed to protect the earth from the human species, and this is a very real organization that has politicians very much behind their endeavors. You can see their website here:

http://www.earthsystemgovernance.org/

It is obvious that our current crop of politicians has no intention of defending the United States Constitution and are seeking to end it. You can see this by watching their actions. There is a very real push for global socialism in order to achieve the aims displayed on that web site for Earth System Governance, and this is what appears to be behind the actions of President Obama.

The gateway to these ideas are in our public schools, and the more work I have done in learning about the problems of public education, the more evident it is that The Department of Education has openly advocated the gradual conversion of the United States from a capitalist economic system into a socialist system. CLICK HERE TO LEARN HOW. And they have been successful by using socialist leaning labor unions to pound through a communist ideology to soften the American people gradually to accept things they would have completely rejected just two decades ago. CLICK HERE TO SEE HOW THIS WAS DONE.

I remember listening to Paul Harvey’s nighttime broadcast at 3:30 AM in 1995 when he re-read this speech from 1962 that he gave before much of what we see happening around us was still in its infancy. Paul Harvey died in 2009, but he will always be one of my favorite radio personalities due in large part to the words he spoke in the video below.

il has made its move against our nation, against our civilization, and evil has made it so that good people cannot call the bad by its proper name in fear of “insulting” those who perpetrate evil openly. Those sinister agents of evil have made such speech unfashionable and therefore captured the politics of orthodox into making the good appear bad and the bad appear to be good.

I have watched the world spin downward and I have tried myself to play fair and believe in the system created by our United States Government, which is employed by all of us. But government believes they are the Elite from Plato’s Republic and they have allowed themselves to become corrupt. This is why the suburbs around Washington D.C. are some of the richest in the entire country, because the wealth of those areas are built off looted wealth of all American taxpayers to fill jobs we don’t need to fulfill the needs of our eventual destruction through those government positions. I see the exact same mentality in public education when dealing with those government schools, there is a pretentiousness that they believe they are entitled to rob, loot and pillage the people of a district to fund the furthering of Socialism in American.

So I think the new McNaughton painting is correct based on the observations of a very good artist. I said it in my original review of McNaughton and I’ll say it again, when the smoke clears from this latest American Revolution, which is being fought right now with words, and not bullets—but I predict will soon, that McNaughton’s pictures will be held in high esteem in the Smithsonian and 100 years from now historians will be thanking the memory of Jon McNaughton for painting what the consciousness of America needed at just the right moment in history to prevent it from falling to the pressure of global socialism.

It won’t be criticism that will be shot in McNaughton’s direction at that future time, but high praise for doing what was right when the rest of the world chastised him for it, for it is in such characters that America was built upon, and it is in such that will deliver it again from the tyranny of socialism.

To understand the truth it helps to view the world through Hoffman Lenses. To understand what those are CLICK THE LINK. If you can’t handle the truth, then don’t read here.

http://overmanwarrior.wordpress.com/2011/12/03/socialists-live-hoffman-lenses-on-urban-meyer/

Is McNaughton Painting Propaganda?

2012-03-19T18:12:00.003-07:00

I am so confused. I'm a high school teacher here in ------. You are such an amazing artist and I fell in love with your painting of the man on the bench being ignored by all the presidents... but then I looked at your other stuff. Why are you just painting propaganda? I have a hard time believing that someone with your talent and obvious depth of insight could paint stuff that seems so.... extremist. You could easily be remembered as one of the great artists of our time. But this weird political stuff seems more fitting for bumper stickers! I'm not writing this to be mean I just don't understand. I really wanted to buy a copy of the aforementioned print for my class, but I feel sort of uncomfortable with the Rush-Limbaugh-Esque nature of your other pieces. I'm sure you're super busy and what not, but your responses to "liberal" criticisms didn't really answer my questions. I'm a swing-voter but I have a hard time getting behind the idea that Obama is a socialist and I tend to view people who hold such ideas as hysterical contributors to the divisiveness that is polarizing Washington and keeping politicians from accomplishing anything. But I have a hard time seeing you that way. You're too talented, and too articulate!

I guess what I'm trying to say is- I want to love your work. I want to buy it, even! But I'm afraid that doing so would constitute brainwashing my students. Since I just got done teaching a unit on letter-writing, I thought I'd follow my own lesson plan and send you a quick note Thanks for reading!
Jennifer

My response:

Jennifer, Thank you for sharing your feelings with me. Things usually appear extreme to those who are not familiar with them. Artists have always used their skills to communicate to the world what they believe. To think that we live in a country without significant peril is to not see the forest for the trees. What is happening in America is bigger than any party. As a teacher you are in a precarious position. You must open the eyes of your students, but conservatism is often frowned on in the public schools. "Propaganda" is a word used to describe media used by Fascist and Communistic regimes to influence the people. I am a single individual who is using his First Amendment rights to speak out against a president and an administration which is harming our country. I see real propaganda every day from the mainstream media as we are told what to think about government and society. Even our public schools have changed from teaching American Exceptionalism to multi-culturalism. Sex education is expected to be taught to children as young as Elementary school age in some states. If my standing against such things is extreme, yes, I am guilty.

Contest Winner!!

2012-03-19T11:18:00.001-07:00

I have to say, I am amazed at the insight so many of you showed as you deciphered this painting. I have many subtleties hidden in this painting that have not been shared, but several of those were divulged in this Facebook contest. I think I will wait longer before I validate some of them. But, the contest’s purpose was to see who could be the first to hit at least four of the main symbols I was thinking of in the painting, “One Nation Under Socialism.” As I expected, some of our liberal friends jumped on at the end and had a little fun mocking the painting. I suppose it would be hilarious if it wasn’t so tragic.

My thanks to everyone who took the time to enter the contest.

Jamie Fitzgibbons is our winner! He wrote the following:

“1) the Constitution is crumbled up representing his blatant disregard for it and a lack of interest in preserving it. 2) pointing at the Constitution represents that he is acknowledging it is still the rule of law and he is telling the American people that he feels he isn't doing anything unconstitutional. 3) the Constitution is on fire representing our rights and liberties being destroyed under his administration. 4) He is not looking at the Constitution on fire which represents that he is either ignorant or deceitful about destroying our right and liberties.”

In addition to this he is covering the words, “United States of America.” His color of tie has meaning and much, much, more…

One Nation Under Socialism

2012-03-18T07:21:00.000-07:00

“I pledge allegiance to the United States of America,

And not to an ideology, which can never stand,

One nation under socialism, divisive,

With no liberty or justice for anyone.”

This November, you will make a choice. Will you choose One Nation Under Socialism?

McNaughton’s Answers to Questions Regarding This Painting:

Why the title “One Nation Under Socialism?”

Our federal government has been moving in the direction of socialism for over one hundred years. Many presidents and politicians have compromised the Constitution as we have given away our freedoms under the guise of entitlements and government intervention. When the people are willing to sacrifice the next generation for their current lifestyles and allow the federal government to have all the power for an illusory mess of pottage—you have chosen One Nation Under Socialism.

What do you mean by an ideology, which can never stand?

I will not support an ideology, which will lead to the destruction of America. In the history of the world, never has there been a recorded example where Socialism has led to the betterment of the human condition or improved the liberty of the people. I know there are varying degrees and definitions of “socialism.” Even the European model of Democratic Socialism has proven to be a dismal failure. Do you want to see our country become like Greece, Italy, Portugal, or even Great Britain?

What do you mean by “divisive, with no liberty or justice for anyone?”

Socialism uses the illusion of offering fairness and justice for everyone by redistributing the wealth of the nation; picking and choosing winners and losers. This administration has taken over our health care system, given bailouts to the automotive industry, banking industry and energy industry. They support the “Occupy Wall Street” movement of increased taxing of the rich to pay for the welfare of the “less rich.” The Constitution never guaranteed equal things—only equal rights and justice. In America we should be FREE TO SUCCEED and FREE TO FAIL!

At this very moment our Constitution is literally going up in flames. What will you do to preserve the Constitution and save America?

Why Socialism Failed …

http://www.thefreemanonline.org/featured/why-socialism-failed/

Learn more at: http://www.mcnaughtonart.com

Amazing Critique of McNaughton's Art

2012-02-07T14:56:00.000-08:00

I found this article that talks about my paintings. I'm not used to someone with art history understanding making a critical analysis of my painting. Thank You.

Overmanwarrior's Wisdom

Official Site of Rich Hoffman. Help get the word out! Send to a friend.

Jon McNaughton versus William Etty: Tradition challenges progressive nudity in art and culture

The Victorian era in England existed between 1837 and 1901 which was the life and death of Queen Victoria. It should be noted that it was Teddy Roosevelt’s first year in office that the Queen died sending through New York society a shock wave of sentimentality that persisted into the beginning of a new movement, called progressivism. The Victorians of New England prided themselves upon the life and culture of Europe during this time of peace between England and France and pointed to the culture that emitted from the motherland as the beam of light that the entire world should emulate. The Victorians sought to achieve this through their progressive presidents of society, men like Roosevelt and Woodrow Wilson and members of the press who would carry on the appeal of the Great Queen Victoria.

It was no stretch that painters like William Etty gained prominence in artistic circles because he exported to the world many of the values of progressive politics. But this did not go over well among the Christian dominated cultures of North America where Etty’s work was considered far too risqué to be accepted part of American culture. Controversy abounded as Etty’s work was shown to the world through progressive art circles advocated by the New England Victorians beholding the memory of their European idol.

It should be noted that Etty’s work still shapes our current culture especially in art. It is basically Etty who established the parameters of what constitutes an R rating for motion pictures, an X rating, or a PG rating. The motion picture industry used Etty’s presentation of the nude to film their actresses for R ratings. So art plays a very powerful role in shaping a culture. One man, like William Etty can shape an entire political movement as the Victorians used Etty to advance progressive politics and the spread of academic monopoly over racism, sexual liberation, and cultural focus.

But that world of the Victorians is collapsing and American society is left hungry and feeling vacant. These feelings of course are beginning to find their way into the art of our culture. They are in the books of Glenn Beck, the comedy of Tim Hawkins and the paintings of Jon McNaughton whom I absolutely adore and are reflecting this new age, the age of the patriot that will sweep away and reject what the Victorians started by way of art replacing them with the type of images seen in McNaughton’s paintings.

I see in the criticism of McNaughton’s The Forgotten Man many of the same criticism launched at Etty, only it’s the reversal groups. It is now the thinkers, the men and women of the mind who have been starving for content and value who were pushed aside when the Victorians ushered in Etty who are now finding voice through McNaughton. I personally find The Forgotten Man painting brilliant in that it tells a proper story. Unlike the Etty feature where the husband of the beautiful woman wanted to show off his wife’s nude body to another man seen tip toeing around the corner, The Forgotten Man shows the thinking man sitting on a park bench surrounded by the types of groups who currently make up our society. It is the Victorian progressives who stand clapping at President Obama as he steps on the Constitution in the right hand side of the picture, and the traditionalists standing on the left pointing at the man on the bench pleading for Obama to look at the man, to remember what everything was supposed to be about. The picture is so brilliant it even places George W. Bush where he belongs right behind Obama looking to his right at the traditionalists as though he felt bad to be where he is.

Have a look at that painting for yourself and listen to Jon McNaughton explain it.

The painting is a didactic work of art. Some art purists might call it pornography in that it is designed to move the viewer into a particular emotion. But in this sense it is equal to the work of Etty which was intended to literally convey sexual energy. McNaughton is trying to paint a picture of our times as he sees it, which is the task of the artist. As a work of art, the picture either achieves this or it doesn’t. For me, The Forgotten Man is very good, and very successful. It will stand proudly in a gallery in Venice, or London someday and will represent this time and age more accurately than many of the films produced in this era. It is a painting that says a lot in a simple scene.

But this isn’t the first time this was done by McNaughton. In the painting One Nation Under God it was shown that America was greatly influenced by Jesus Christ, which it was, and various elements on the left such as the media and other progressives are actually being pushed along by the devil. When I look at this painting by McNaughton I think of the Michelangelo painting called The Last Judgment painted on the alter wall of the Sistine Chapel in Vatican City. The primary difference between the two works is one of scale but the essence of the message is essentially the same. The same basic metaphors are used for the same didactic effect.

It is easier to look at the work of Michelangelo and profess him a master because the painting of The Last Judgment was done over a 4 year period and completed in 1541, and is in a far away land separated from current political influences. When Michelangelo is discussed the focus of the modern academic is on the massive scope of those Michelangelo paintings of the Renaissance, and not so much the content. The content of religious overtones is regarded as out-of-date and therefore out-of-fashion by the Victorian contemporaries.

McNaughton’s work is so powerful, even on the smaller scale; it’s the metaphors that have the progressive art critics scared for their very existences. Entire generations of Victorian art critics have tried very hard to prevent artists of the caliber of talent of a McNaughton to emerge. Most of the great brush painters of our day are easily controlled in our public institutions and McNaughton is a terrifying example to them that someone of great talent has escaped! The didactic art of Jon McNaughton has the power to alter American culture and they know it.

Progressives who know art and history cannot ridicule McNaughton without criticizing Etty, so they are caught in a quandary. They are attempting to portray McNaughton with the same tired euphemism of racism because there aren’t enough dark-skinned figures in McNaughton’s paintings, or other progressive platform points. But the essence of the paintings themselves, the metaphors cannot be challenged because they have meaning. This has left the media using anyone they can to come on record and attempt to deface McNaughton. So they resorted to a twenty something comic book artist from Columbus, Ohio to make the attempt.

Rachel Maddow even tried this recently when she posted on her blog a picture of The Forgotten Man to invite critical comments from her progressive viewers. You can read about that at The Blaze shown at the link below.

http://www.theblaze.com/stories/controversial-painting-of-obama-trampling-constitution-resurfaces-artists-new-work-tells-enslaved-americans-to-wake-up/

Art is intended to be controversial. Art proper will take the viewer beyond their known parameters to a place they hadn’t been before. Art used as a weapon as progressives have done by using nudity, religious desecration, and other forms of pornography to advance their political platform of “non thinking” to bend American society to the will of the Victorian era in tribute to their deceased queen are fair game. Art galleries all over the world will provide the testimony of the many ideological conflicts waged over the tapestry of time. The difference between their age, and the one we are in now is that Jon McNaughton represents the art of a new generation that is pretty pissed off and ready to breath fire upon the wretched hive of scum and villainy that is the age of the Victorian progressive. I applaud the work of Jon McNaughton with not only a standing ovation but also by standing atop the tallest rung of the tallest ladder I can find to affirm it. Jon McNaughton’s work will be considered the Norman Rockwell of our day once the last of the Victorian progressive’s wither away into historical context, and the dark days of their reign will finally be at an end.

History will look to the painting of The Forgotten Man and declare that America woke up from a terrible dream about the time that this painting hit canvas from the mind of McNaughton in 2009. History will show that America found its way again once its people could look upon themselves in one of the fantastic paintings of this very talented artist and see how the invisible shackles they had not seen the Victorian progressives place about their feet came to be, but once seen sparked the newly found desire to fight for freedom.

WHO DO YOU VOTE FOR?

2012-01-30T16:50:00.000-08:00

Renee' asked me the following question:

"I know this is personal, but curious if you would answer. Do you have a candidate in mind to vote for? I am very confused about my decision of who to vote for. Just like last time, I find myself looking at the people running for office, and I am tormented to make the right choice. Would respect your input!!"

My response:

Renee',

Ron Paul is the most constitutional, (which I really like) but the least political. Some may say that is an asset, but I'm afraid he would have a difficult time getting things done with all the obstacles he would face in Washington.

Each of the other candidates have something of value and something that makes me doubt. I keep having debates with my son about voting for Ron Paul. We talk about the issues of Iran, abortion, illegal immigration. If I lined up each candidate based on how they meet my personal ideals, Paul is first. But then there is the argument: is the goal to vote based on ideals or to vote to "remove" Obama and begin the process of reviving our country? I think Paul may only get the strongly conservative voters.

When all is said and done, I will vote based on my conscious.

I would be interested in any strong arguments why I should vote for any particular candidate. This I know...Obama must be voted out of office!

Why the Rooster in WAKE UP AMERICA?

2011-10-11T11:37:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I asked the question regarding my new painting, "Wake Up America": Why did I place the rooster in the painting and what is the symbol I am using? I promised a free print to the first person who could correctly answer.

I read through all the comments and most all of you were on the right track, but didn't quite take it far enough. Yes, it is a reference to the New Testament story of how Peter, on the eve of Christ's crucifixion, denied Jesus three times. When the cock crowed, Peter went and wept bitterly. The rooster has many symbols and is usually tied with the rise of a new day, waking up, or protection. In my mind, Americans need to "wake up" to what is happening in our country. We are in a state of denial and like Peter will go and weep bitterly as we come to realize our mistake.

Gina Burnett was the first of only two that hit the nail on the head...

The rooster is symbolic of the fact that almost all of the people are denying that they are slaves of the government. The "forgotten man" understands that and is trying to break free of government slavery. There are some people that are noticing that, but not yet acting on it. The rooster is a warning of impending disaster.

I will give her my first print off the press! Thank you for entering our little contest. I will do more like this as we roll out the painting. Remember, let's WAKE UP AMERICA!!

My Favorite Artist

2011-10-02T08:07:00.000-07:00

A question I am often asked by others: What is your favorite artist? Who inspires you?

It would be Michelangelo. Yes, he is one of the most famous artists who ever lived (for good reason), but it is the man behind the art that captivates me. Michelangelo came to us at the heart of the Italian Renaissance. It was a time when the great artists, architects, sculptors and others where looking to the past in order to improve upon the future. They were in a sense standing upon the shoulders of the great ones!

During Michelangelo’s life he saw the excavation of incredible sculpture by the Romans that were far more expressive than anything his contemporaries were producing. It inspired him. As I have read about Michelangelo’s life I feel that he was driven to create art that glorified God. He felt that his path was different than others and his education would come through personal study and reflection. He never sought the acceptance or approval of others, but was fiercely independent. He always followed his personal vision to create what he thought was the will of God.

I admire Michelangelo, not because I think he was perfect (although he is second to none), but because I see what an artist can do when he puts himself in the hands of the true master, our Lord Jesus Christ. I will never be a Michelangelo. I do not want to emulate his art or paint like him. My path is different. I will be the best Jon McNaughton I can be. I will use my art to leave a message to the world that I feel is worth seeing. Though I may be hated and mocked by many because my art does not fit into their personal view, my voice will be heard.

Each of us should follow the example of Michelangelo as we discover the great voice within us.

Between Them and God

2011-09-27T07:37:00.000-07:00

Here is a question I received regarding my painting One Nation Under God.

AMAZING! While I scrolled over every image (I thought), down front, I could see some of the personalities in me, some of which I was ashamed. I did not realize until I read your commentary, and Satan was in there. I had to go back to find him, I finally did, he is almost transparent. I realized, just as we have Jesus in us, we also have Satan, no matter how faint he is. I applaud you. This made me look at my character, and see me, more clearly. Though I am not proud of some of it...

Thank you! I like it when people personalize the painting and they find additional meaning. Your interpretation is exactly what I hope many will consider.

Why would you have Christ be the central figure to such self righteous indignation?

To have Christ in the center so prominently holding the Constitution makes a powerful statement. Some would like to interpret this to mean if you’re not a Christian—get out! My view of Christianity in regards to this painting is this: God loves all of us. In the painting His face is sad and He looks off into the distance as if He can see our future. The purpose of the painting is not to say only Christians belong here. It is to say that the Constitution is what made our country great.

Why do you judge a whole group of people by the actions of a few? Do you actually believe that Christ would approve of the such a generalization of HIS children?

I’m not sure why you assume I am judging anyone. The people in the bottom right corner represent those that I believe are weakening our country by not supporting the principles of the Constitution. These figures represent a symbol of a type of person. If there is any kind of “sin” involved, that is between them and God.

My Prayer for 911

2011-09-09T10:16:00.000-07:00

Many of us have been thinking about the ten year anniversary of 911 that is approaching. A stream of emotions floods my mind and heart as I remember the events that day. We all mourned together as we saw the destruction and loss of life in the Twin Towers, but out of the ashes of that day Americans showed love and compassion and renewed patriotism towards each other. 911 was one of our country’s worst moments and yet one of our very best.

As we remember 911 I hope we can think of it like a new Independence Day in America. Let it be a day to remember hope, love, and our dependence on God. May we seek to find favor and blessings from Him.

Since the mayor of New York will not allow a prayer at the 911 service which will be held, I will offer my own:

Our Father which is in Heaven,

As we remember those whom we love who have died on this hallowed ground, mothers and fathers, men and woman who gave up their lives ten years ago. Please remember the prayers of thy people. We are deeply saddened by the loss of so many of thy sons and daughters. Many of which were trying to help relieve the suffering of those still inside the towers.

We know that thou art a just God and knoweth all things. Thou knowest the hearts of conspiring men and those who would seek to destroy our country.

Today, as our country stands divided, wilt thou open a door to allow for Americans to see the light of liberty. Wilt thou allow thy Spirit to enlighten the minds and hearts of the Amercican people that they may seek a path of responsibility and prudence and trust in thee in all righteousness. Lord, bless us to remember we are One Nation Under God.

And this we pray, in the sacred name of Jesus Christ, Amen

Discount for Facebook Fans

2011-08-22T09:33:00.000-07:00

As you may have heard we have a TV commercial for One Nation Under God which has begun today! It's a special offer we have never done before for the purpose of spreading the word that we are ONE NATION UNDER GOD! To see the commercial click here: www.buyonenationundergod.com

I am offering a five dollar discount to any of my Facebook fans who enter the promo code: JMDISC5

What makes this offer so amazing is that not only do you save $5.00 on the regular price of the print, but you also recieve a detailed Reference Guide with the key to the painting, three 5X7 Gift Cards, a Constitution Booklet, and an hour long documentary about the painting explaining every detail and symbol and my story behind the painting! It's awesome!! Now is the best time to get a copy of this for your self or a friend.

After it arrives in the mail, please let me know how you like it!

Sincerely,

Jon McNaughton

What About African Americans?

2011-08-16T14:54:00.000-07:00

I had the following question about my painting One Nation Under God:

I love the painting...I really do. But as an African American...where do we really stand in this country? I see Fredrick Douglass and Harriett Tubman in the painting but they are in the back and this really shows where we are an ethnic group in America.

This world is just what it is...and as we both know WE ALL will face GOD even the unbelievers. Not trying to make a fuss, but just saying what needs to be said. Thanks for letting me give an opinion.

I responded:

I appreciate your point of view. The subject of race is a sensitive issue. I feel there has been improvement in the white community in regards to racism, although there is obviously room for growth. In my painting I have nine figures directly related to Civil Rights. In the background there are twenty three figures—only three are black. I suppose I looked at the painting to some extent with color blindness. I never meant to make a statement that African Americans are less important. In the Constitution it says that all men are created equal. In the beginning, because of states that disputed the issue of slavery, this part was not complete. With the addition of the thirteenth amendment we moved closer to equal freedoms. You asked, “As an African American…where do we really stand in this country?” Under the Constitution we are now all equal. I believe that as an “AMERICAN”, you can stand for God, you can stand for truth, you can stand for equal rights, and you can stand for liberty. And in the sight of God we are all equal.

Pregnant Women Are Not Evil

2011-08-14T09:40:00.000-07:00

I received the following letter concerning my painting One Nation Under God:

I picked up (whether intentional or not) the symbolism of the people in the front of Jesus Christ as being gracious on the right and wretched on the left. However, the pregnant women who wants to keep her baby is on the left side. Any specific reason for this? She seems to be out of place and should be on the right. Your thoughts?

I have strong feelings about the subject of abortion. By putting her behind the Supreme Court Judge who represents the legalizing of abortion, it amplifies the message. The people on the bottom right side are not damned souls. They are those who are caught in the struggle. The judge and the pregnant woman are actually listening to the voices of change.

Do You Know Jesus?

2011-08-13T08:14:00.000-07:00

Someone sent me the following letter:
AFTER READING THE EMAIL I GOT WITH YOUR PAINTING AND YOUR COMMENTS, I JUST HAVE ONE QUESTION FOR YOU. THIS IS THE MOST IMPORTANT QUESTION YOU WILL EVER BE ASKED AND YOUR ANSWER WILL DETERMINE WHERE YOU WILL SPEND ETERNITY............DO YOU KNOW JESUS CHRIST AS YOU PERSONAL SAVIOR?
> THE PAINTING IS BEAUTIFUL....A GOD GIVEN TALENT YOU HAVE SIR.

Thank you. That is a question that applies to all of us. I believe that each individual at some point has to decide whether they accept Jesus as their Savior. It is a personal realization and goes beyond simply speaking the words. In answer to your question, yes, I know Jesus Christ as my personal Savior. But this answer only has meaning between me and God. I believe to know Christ is to do the works of Christ. I found this scripture that I have applied to myself: 2 Timothy 2:19-26 (remarkable scripture)

Pushing Towards Socialism?

2011-08-12T07:00:00.000-07:00

I was asked the following question:

Under the #2 explanation information of the painting, you state, “Except for the pregnant woman, these are people who pushed our country toward Socialism.” I don’t understand why you would say that. Please explain. Thank you.

This is a good question. My first thought was, “How can I answer this briefly without outraging a political science instructor?” The people in the bottom right corner could be of any political persuasion. I use these metaphorical figures to highlight what I consider to be some of the problems we face in

America

today. When I talk about socialism I am referring to a government which would have ownership or control of all means of production and distribution. This is obviously the antithesis of a free market society. I believe those who are proponents of a larger federal government advocate “taking from the haves and giving to the have nots.” The Constitution is a standard for equal rights, not equal things. Our country has been steadily moving toward a socialistic form of government and this is alarming to most conservatives. When I say, “These are people who have pushed our country toward socialism” I am referring to the liberal mindset that believes in more federal government control.

Click on image to learn more.

Painting Borders On Fascist?

2011-08-11T06:36:00.000-07:00

As the title of your painting suggests, ours is "One Nation Under God" -- not "One Nation Under Christ" as your painting depicts. At best, your painting is offensive to non-Christians or those who exercise their right not to believe in the God. At worst, the painting borders on fascist. I guess this just goes to prove one thing -- that fundamentalism is not restricted to just to regions like the Middle East and countries like Yemen. It is alive and well in the US of A. I pray that you will see the light -- that history has proven that mixing religion into politics is a lethal combination. I would have though that 9/11 had proven that.
Rev. Fr. Anastasios Gounaris
Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Christian Church

This is an interesting perspective coming from a Christian minister. Are you not familiar with our country’s Christian roots? The symbolism of Christ holding the Constitution should not be offensive if you believe the Constitution was divinely inspired. And then you state that that the painting “borders on Fascist?” Fascism is where the state becomes more important than the individual, usually with a military run authoritarian government—the exact opposite of a Republic! Fundamentalism is a strict coherence to one’s beliefs. In an age of compromise we need more good Americans to stand up for what they believe in.