9/11 Heart Symbol Sticker

The 9/11 Heart Symbol was created in 2001 just days after the attacks on the World Trade Center, Washington DC and Shanksville, PA by Louie Ponstingel, an artist born in Manhattan and raised and currently living in Paterson, NJ.

When the tragedy of 9/11/ struck our country, like so many Americans, Louie was overwhelmed and devastated by what transpired. During such a time of disbelief and sadness, he sat in his studio and started to draw as a way to wrap his head around what had just occurred. He had no intention or idea that this would or could be anything special. He just drew what he was feeling that could possible show support for those who were lost that day. 

Shortly after the attacks, he worked at Ground Zero for a construction company and at Fresh Kills in Staten Island for Phillips Jordan where he lettered equipment and directional signage. After work hours, he volunteered his personal time there but eventually stopped due to a hand injury received while working on site. After seeing such devastation and feeling so many emotions, it became even more personal and clear to him that this symbol needed to be introduced to all as a visual that projected remembrance, love and hopefully some sort of healing. He realized that as many people have embraced this symbol, there are still so many who are not aware that it exists. He believes it to be a beautiful symbol that should be seen and remembered just as the POW/MIA symbol brings a sense of comfort to those who show their respect by flying its flag or wearing a pin or like many placing a sticker on their vehicles. The 9/11 Heart Symbol is for the September 11th victims and their families, the survivors and to those that have died since of 9/11-related illnesses.