We Hold These Truths to Be Self-Evident by Michael Hall

It was a hot summer's day in Philadelphia in 1776 when Thomas Jefferson wrote the Declaration of Independence. Jefferson was an imperfect human being who penned the words that would be the foundation on which a free society would be built.

"We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness." 

I've depicted Jefferson surrounded by books, which symbolizes the important role of knowledge and education in his life. I've also depicted him barefoot with his shirtsleeves rolled up and his shirt unbuttoned. This is in contrast to the sophisticated, educated gentleman, and shows him very much as a regular person in the depths of the creative process.