Veterans Express Their Creative Side

The U.S Department of Veteran Affairs offers many events for veterans to compete in events and clinics. On October 23^rd through October 27^th, the 2013 National Creative Arts Festival took place. At this festival, veteran’s creative talents were exhibited in forms of creative writing, art, dance, drama, and music. The competition was open to veterans enrolled at a VA Medical Center for Outpatient Clinic. During the months of April, May and June, the work that was submitted to the 2013 national creative competition and then judged at the festival. The panel of judges invited the winners of the national creative competition to attend the National Veterans Creative Arts Festival.

            This year the festival was in Reno, Nevada.  The first place winners, in each category, perform in a variety show with a professional orchestra whom accompanies the performance.  Approximately 140 veterans receive an invitation and attend the festival. The public is welcome as well. Anyone can attend the art exhibit as well as the stage show.

            The national competition and the festival is important because it recognizes veterans for their creative accomplishments. The therapeutic benefits veterans receive by expressing themselves through their art is also recognized during this festival. 

Here are some of my favorite pieces of work that were awarded at the festival.

Oil Painting Category 

Title: The Village

By Sherman Watkins

(Oil Painting)

Monochromatic Drawing Category

Title: December Storm on the Oregon Coast
By Daniel Jones
(Monochromatic Drawing)

Combined Kit Category

Title: Time for Dreams #2
By James Shriver
(Combined Kit)

I chose these three pieces of work as my favorites because of the intricate detail and creative value they all express.

To see the rest of the winners, check out the photo gallery!