Like so many other artists who are acutely visual, extremely sensitive and strive to create beauty, the visual impact of the events of September 11 was nearly intolerable to Joy. The pain, grief and destruction were burned into her mind, and a monumental ache gripped her heart. “An Angel Kneels on 9/11” came as a vision in the days that followed, brought out by a desire to show some beauty and hope amid the horrendous destruction. The angel cries as she picks up a teddy bear, symbolizing the innocence of the victims, the warmth and sense of connection that these individuals embodied as they performed their everyday rituals. She kneels to pay homage to their collective spirit as the sunlight begins to shine again, warming and returning hope to the solemn site. "I truly believe there remains hope and beauty in our country and in the world. These acts that brought so much grief and suffering to so many innocent people should be identified merely as the desperate acts of angry cowards. What should be remembered, are not only the people who were injured and killed, but the new found spirit of community and love that has grown worldwide in this year. I will strive to continue to create beauty and promote peace, and I am proud to be an American and proud to be a member of a peace-loving world."
- Joy Alyssa Day