I find this discussion very interesting.  However, is it pointless to
     discuss how an artist could have done a work differently in order to
     make it more digestible?  The artists in this exhibition (keep in mind
     I have not seen it) sound deeply convicted about the issues raised in
     their work.  A map of the United States certainly does not carry with
     it the symbolism that the American Flag does.  If I recall correctly,
     some of this work addresses the Vietnam War.  The symbology of the
     Flag, with all of its positive meanings, confronts us with our
     sometimes idealized patriotism when couched in the context of
     something as powerful as the Vietnam War.

     An important role of art (my .02) is to provoke and challenge our
     unchallenged assumptions.  My hunch is that this exhibition will evoke
     in viewers a stronger sense of patriotism.

     John Handley
     San Francisco