Jonovan Bracey '26 Combines History and Art Through Independent Study
As members of the King community descend the stairs to the second floor of the Upper School this fall, they encounter Jonovan Bracey’s ’26 striking new installation, “Reflections on the Vietnam War.” Positioned at the bottom of the stairs, the site-specific work places viewers face-to-face with a soldier and a protester. A central mirror draws observers into the scene, inviting reflection on the legacy of one of the most divisive conflicts in U.S. history.
“I want people to consider the perspective of American soldiers during the Vietnam War,” Jonovan said. “I hope viewers feel the pressure that was put on soldiers as they confronted the battlefield and the backlash.”
Jonovan’s engagement with the Vietnam War began last spring in a history elective led by teacher Rachel Ackley. When the senior students who comprised the rest of the class departed for their annual senior projects, Jonovan pursued an independent study under Ackley’s guidance, focusing on the veterans’ movement during and after the war. His research highlighted the role of G.I. coffeehouses, spaces created by anti-war veterans and civilians where soldiers could read, play music, and engage in political debate. These spaces became symbols of dissent and targets of harassment and violence.
“Jonavan's enthusiasm for this topic made the teaching effortless,” said Ackley, adding that his research wrestled with timeless questions of justice and morality.
With Ackley’s encouragement and inspired by the book “Waging Peace,” Jonavan translated his research into a mixed-media installation with art teacher Ran La Polla. The project allowed Jonovan to combine his passion for history and art by translating his research into an original work.
The cross-disciplinary installation features two painted figures on opposite sides. To the left, a soldier embodies pride and belief in the war effort. To the right, a protesting veteran represents the shift in perspective many soldiers experienced. The mirror at the center draws viewers into the work, allowing them to see themselves within the historical dialogue.
“The mirror puts the viewer in a position to see the changes and reality of the Vietnam War,” Jonovan explains, adding that it is an opportunity for self-reflection in the face of an unknown future.
“He had to make many decisions on how to best communicate his understanding about this event, engage viewers, and use accurate first-person accounts,” LaPolla said. “In creating this piece, he didn’t just repeat what he had learned; he, in effect, became our teacher.”
Jonovan said he found joy in the process and credits the support of Ackley and LaPolla with helping him realize his vision.
“From the moment I thought of the idea, we got straight to work and they helped me see potential in artistic skills that I have not seen in myself before,” he said. “I hope when other students see this artwork, they are encouraged to explore a new topic and find creative ways to express and share their research.”
