Minnesota Artist Shares Combat Airmen’s Stories Through Art

In a heartfelt tribute to combat airmen, Minnesota artist Noel L. Dunn has donated a remarkable collection of 100 paintings to the Fagen Fighters World War II Museum in Granite Falls, Minnesota. These works, which focus on iconic fighter aircraft, particularly the P-51 Mustang, serve not only as artistic expressions but also as narratives reflecting the lives of the brave men who flew them. The donation was celebrated during a gathering on October 16, 2023, where Dunn shared his journey and the significance of his collection.

Dunn, an 87-year-old artist known for his landscapes and wildlife paintings, began his passion for aviation art during the Korean War. He started collecting images of P-51 Mustangs from newspapers, which sparked a lifelong fascination with military aircraft. His artistic journey led to the creation of 100 individual paintings, each capturing the essence of various warbirds from World War II, the Korean War, Vietnam, and Desert Storm.

What sets Dunn’s collection apart is the personal connection each painting has with its subject. He sought out and obtained autographs from pilots and crew members featured in his artwork. Among these are notable figures like former President George H.W. Bush, who signed a painting of himself flying a Grumman TBM Avenger during World War II. Dunn’s collection also includes signatures from members of the Tuskegee Airmen and pilots involved in historic missions, alongside many unsung heroes whose stories might otherwise remain untold.

The gathering at the museum allowed family, friends, and aviation enthusiasts to engage with Dunn’s collection and learn about the stories behind the paintings. The event included the premiere of a documentary titled “Signed & Served: Warbird Art on Display,” produced by Pioneer PBS. The film chronicles Dunn’s dedication to capturing the essence of each airman’s story, illustrating how his perseverance and connections enabled him to find and paint these war heroes.

Dunn’s artistic journey began unexpectedly when he forged a friendship with Harrison “Bud” Tordoff, an ace P-51 pilot and professor at the University of Minnesota. Their bond formed over a shared interest in hunting, and it wasn’t until Dunn saw a photograph of Tordoff’s military service that he learned of his friend’s significant past. This revelation inspired Dunn to create his first aerial painting, marking the beginning of a passionate quest that would culminate in 100 pieces.

Each painting in Dunn’s collection is crafted from carefully chosen photographs to ensure accuracy in detail. He has resisted numerous offers to sell individual works, adhering to his commitment to maintain the integrity of the complete collection. “This is their history, not just a piece of paper with their name on it,” he stated in the documentary, emphasizing the importance of preserving these stories.

In recent years, Dunn contemplated the future of his collection. Concerned about its safety while stored at home, he discovered the Fagen Fighters Museum after watching a television program. Impressed by the museum’s dedication to preserving aviation history, he decided to donate his collection, along with letters and notes detailing his correspondence with the airmen.

Dunn expressed deep gratitude for the opportunity to showcase his work in a place dedicated to honoring military aviation. “I can’t believe it,” he shared emotionally with attendees after the documentary screening. “I’m so happy to be in this fine place.” His commitment to honoring these airmen through art reflects a profound respect for their contributions and sacrifices.

As a graduate of the University of Minnesota in arts and communication, Dunn’s journey is a testament to the power of storytelling through art. His collection not only enriches the museum’s exhibits but also serves as a lasting tribute to the valor of those who served in the skies.