The James Van Zandt VA Medical center is hosting an art display this Tuesday and Wednesday, open to the public. Each piece of artwork, was made by a local veteran.
The center’s volunteer coordinator, Amy Detterline, says this is a great way to show off the veterans’ talents, while giving them a way to release any anxiety or emotions they are feeling.
The display has almost two dozen works of art in many different mediums. Artists have created paintings, sculptures, stain glass, and even a mosaic quilt display, which took over a year to create.
Vietnam Veteran, Howard Dougal, did not create any of the art in the room, but came out to view the display.
While Dougal says he uses walking sticks as his way of dealing with struggles he carries with him from serving, he believes these pieces of art tell a story of each veteran’s past.
Dougal is a volunteer at the center, and believes the artwork should help inspire others to spend more time in helping local veterans.
Veterans at the medical center, including 100 year old World War II Veteran, Julius Salvia, was one creator of a wall art.
Salvia was one of many people involved in making sections of the red, white, and blue artwork. He remained humble, saying he had a small hand in something beautiful multiple people participated in bringing to life.
This is the first year for the art display, Detterline says she hopes to continue this event for years to come.