Lin's vision was soon confronted with a wave of criticism from more conservative minded circles. In favor of a more traditional type of monument, one complete with stone statues and the usual array of patriotic fanfare, this faction was somewhat alarmed by what they feared would look more like a "scar" upon the landscape than a tribute to the armed service. The footage of Lin's valiant, emotional defense before a hearing of naysayers sheds some light on the more subtle issues at play. Maya Lin, as a young Asian-American woman must have raised some eyebrows even before her daring designs had been unveiled.

In addition to this momentous episode, the film examines the artist at work, depicting her creation of the Vietnam landmark as well as other installations, including the Civil Rights Memorial in Montgomery, Alabama, the Yale Women's Table and the Juniata Peace Chapel. While focusing on the intricacies of Maya Lin's superior artistry. A STRONG CLEAR VISION also manages to convey the power behind Lin's work: the unique way she used art to tackle some of the world's most bitter memories, the way she was able to translate the greatest moments of pain into arching slabs of marble.