A First Look at 1001 Colors' Tuskegee Airmen Legacy Mural Series
Explore the vision behind 1001 Colors’ statewide America 250 initiative honoring Ohio’s Tuskegee Airmen through public art, youth opportunity, and historic storytelling.
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Allan Lunda's Legacy Lives On Through the Tuskegee Airmen Legacy Mural Series
When 1001 Colors' Tuskegee Airmen Legacy Mural Series is installed across Ohio, one mural will carry a particularly personal story.
Akron artist Allan Keith Lunda (October 3, 1948 - April 14, 2026) completed a design honoring his father, Edward R. Lunda, a distinguished Tuskegee Airman from Akron, before his passing. His vision is being realized by 1001 Colors' Youth Apprentices and will be installed in Allan's hometown, creating a lasting tribute to both father and son.
A Vietnam War veteran, man of faith, and accomplished artist, Allan came to art later in life. In his own artist statement, he shared that he began his artistic journey at age 43 after being introduced to ceramic pottery in an Akron park. His passion for creating portraits and honoring historic figures would eventually lead him to this deeply meaningful project.
For Allan, the Tuskegee Airmen Legacy Mural Series was more than an artistic opportunity. It was a chance to celebrate his father's service and preserve the legacy of a generation that helped change American history.
"My father Edward R. Lunda was a proud Tuskegee Airman who served his country during World War II," Allan wrote in his artist statement.
His portrait of Edward R. Lunda stands as a powerful reminder of the courage, excellence, and perseverance of Ohio's Tuskegee Airmen. It also reflects Allan's lifelong commitment to honoring history through art.
As this mural takes its place in Akron, it will serve as a lasting legacy for both the hero it depicts and the artist who ensured his story would continue to inspire future generations.
Thank you, Allan, for sharing your talent, your story, and your family's legacy with us all.
