TIME Magazine has released a special issue commemorating the 250th anniversary of America, drawing on the expertise of 250 individuals to identify the art, innovations, and places that encapsulate the nation's essence. The semiquincentennial edition, guided by managing editor Lily Rothman and editor David Walters, includes selections from prominent figures across various fields.
Notable contributions feature Apple's Tim Cook choosing the iPhone, SpaceX's Gwynne Shotwell selecting the rocket, filmmaker Ken Burns highlighting the Lincoln Memorial, designer Ralph Lauren pointing to the Empire State Building, and Bill Ford selecting Michigan Central Station. In the realm of sports and adventure, Olympian Mikaela Shiffrin pays tribute to the Rockies, and climber Alex Honnold focuses on Yosemite. Literary figures such as Ann Patchett, George Saunders, and Min Jin Lee have chosen books they consider definitive of America.
The issue's curators noted recurring themes, including the significant impact of technology on civic life and the hope generated by the recent Artemis II mission. A prevailing sentiment across the selections is the enduring belief in the American ideal, even during challenging times. The creative direction for the issue was managed by D.W. Pine, who collaborated with artist Shepard Fairey on the cover. Fairey's design, his fourth for TIME, incorporates imagery celebrating American achievements in science, arts, and industry, with the Statue of Liberty as a central motif. The visual design was handled by Victor Williams and Jennifer Panzer, with photography curated by Kim Bubello.
The selections were compiled over several months, with experts being asked to identify elements that capture the spirit of American life. The magazine's effort aimed to reflect a broad spectrum of American experiences and achievements as the nation approaches its 250th anniversary.