On June 11, 1776, during the Revolutionary War, the Second Continental Congress, comprised of delegates from the 13 colonies, met in Philadelphia, PA, to discuss cutting ties with their parent country, England. The residents of the new world no longer wanted to be victims of taxation without representation, among other antiquated and intolerable agreements.
Like a teenager transitioning from high school to college, our nation evolved and matured after our founders signed the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776. Unfortunately, things didn't immediately change for the colonies, who were still profoundly embroiled in war. On July 9, 1776, General George Washington had his men listen to a Declaration reading to give hope and elevate morale. Finally, a few years later, the war ended on September 3, 1783.
In 1870 the
4th of July was deemed a Federal holiday. To this day, people still demonstrate their gratitude much as they did in the past by gathering with friends and family, participating in parades, watching fireworks, and heading to the beach. For our celebration, we are excited to bring to you canvas prints that we feel characterize this special day, most
synonymous with Summer and feelings of joy and freedom.

Located at 520 Chestnut Street, comfortably nestled in Philadelphia's popular Old City neighborhood among trendy bars and restaurants, sits the historic
Independence Hall, where Thomas Jefferson, Ben Franklin, John Adams, and a committee of others signed the Declaration of Independence.
If you happen to be from the City of Brotherly Love or are familiar with its passionate residents, you understand how much their beloved city and its significant past hold a special place in their hearts. So, after you've cleaned and tidied the house and let the ribs marinate for a few hours, style your library or living room with Nicholas Santoleri's interpretation of a national treasure and a bit of Philadelphia pride.
Franklin by Octavian MieluWe would be remiss in not showcasing a portrait of at least one of America's founders and co-signers of the Declaration of Independence. We chose
Benjamin Franklin for his eclectic background. Did you know that Ben Franklin was an inventor, philosopher, and scientist in addition to being a politician? In 1752 Ben Franklin connected lightning to static electricity with an experiment using a lightning rod. He was also the first President of what is now The University of Pennsylvania.
Abstract Graffiti created a paradoxical canvas print of this man from the 1700s dressed in period clothing with his image festooned in contemporary graffiti art. High school students and history buffs alike will find the artistic and educational appeal in this modern take on a maybe not so relatable figure from the past.
Is there a single person since the advent of the United States who hasn't spent the end of a hedonistic 4th of July with a raging fireworks display? It's possible but not probable. Following a buffet of hamburgers, hotdogs, corn on the cob, watermelon, potato salad, and whatever delicacies are available, it's tradition to pile in a car, however big or small, and head to the local pyrotechnics.
The toddler in the illustrative and color imbued
Youthful Happiness reaches for the sky in hopes of grabbing a handful of the brightness before him. Don't most of us still feel the butterflies of excitement in our stomachs year after year as a sticky summer's day converts to evening? Hopefully, you all see yourselves in this little boy's newly found unbridled curiosity.

Before the picnic revelers arrive and the red, white, and blue decorations glitz up nearly every room in your house, go for an early morning bike ride through the city or along the beach path. Breathe in the warm breeze and feel the sun's rays massage your head in a relaxing manner.
Since childhood, bike riding gave us a sense of agency and separation, even for a little while, from our parents. Live Free is not an overtly commemorative image but more of a symbolic one that will give you lasting visual enjoyment.

The food is ready and placed on the backyard table minus the barbeque items, the house looks presentable, and the children are momentarily behaving. You've reflected on the meaning of the day and had your bike ride. Guests are now starting to trickle in.
Don't forget to pull out your collection of vibrant beach towels for an afternoon of lounging and swimming. Of course, we understand not everyone has access to a pool or watering hole, but you can always lay out on the grass after a good meal in your bikini. Jen Bucheli's wall decor featuring a woman worshipping the sun post-swim not only inspires us to take advantage of such a time, but we also think this artwork would look lovely in a well-designed bathroom.
We tend to seek artwork that inspires and validates our feelings of self-expression during times of celebration. This
4th of July, decorate your space with canvas prints that best define and symbolize this extraordinary holiday that encompasses history, freedom, and excitement.