Harold "Hap" A. Wagner, Air Products
Background
Ron Wagner wanted to do something extraordinary for his brother Hap's retirement. Harold A. "Hap" Wagner was the Chairman of the Board and CEO of Air Products and Chemicals, a $5.5B Fortune 500 company. For Hap's retirement from 37 years with the company, including his last 8 as CEO, Ron envisioned a one-of-a-kind artistic tribute for this larger-than-life leader at an unforgettable unveiling.
The Client's Goals
Ron Wagner wanted his first meeting discussing the project with Drue to be at a Stanford basketball game. Overlooking Maples Pavilion, he reminisced about the Wagner & Wagner days. Both brothers had golden memories from their time at Stanford University – on and off the basketball court. "I'd like to commission a portrait of my brother Hap as the ultimate retirement gift," Ron told Drue, "but this whole project must be a secret so we can honor him at a surprise party!"
Research
Working closely with Ron Wagner and the Wagner family, Drue interviewed relatives, business colleagues and executives from Air Products. Each person was brought into the secret and invited to share their perspective of this multi-faceted man. Drue collected and internalized countless anecdotes and stories about Hap's powerful presence in the boardroom and also learned about his wonderful philanthropic touch.
Solution
- Original Sumi-e Portrait of Hap Wagner - Drue created a portrait of Hap entitled It's HAP-pening featuring his characteristic stance and gesture with a shuttle launching in the distance. This was a nod to one of Air Product's achievements that Hap was particularly proud—providing the hydrogen fuel powering NASA's shuttle engines during the ascent phase of flight. Drue re-imagined the shuttle as a metaphor for Hap's unstoppable upward trajectory.
- Original Commentary and Poem - Drue's commentary and poem were embedded with special references to Hap's history, his accomplishments and the love, admiration and respect of his family and friends.
- Presentation of Portrait to Hap - At a special invitation-only event, Ron Wagner and Drue coordinated a surprise unveiling. In the style of legendary Stanford Wagner tailgates, an impressive spread was laid out for the guests. Ron signaled to Drue that the presentation would begin. After Drue's unveiling, Ron said, "Having Drue paint my brother's portrait will have a special honor in Wagner history." When Hap saw his framed portrait, his response moved the entire audience. Hap's characteristic turn-of-phrase riffed off Drue's title of his portrait, It's HAP-pening.
- Custom Framing Consultation - Drue assisted the Wagner family in selecting a magnificent frame with a classic molding.
Spotlight Fact
Ron Wagner knew that the final destination of Drue's portrait of Hap could be in any of Hap's multiple residences criss-crossing the globe. "What appeals to many of my clients is that the elegant tones of Sumi-e are harmonious with multiple settings," Drue said. "The classic black and white brush strokes complement decors ranging from traditional to contemporary."
For commission inquiries contact: drue@drue.net
