The Military Mental Health Mural of Hope

Art saved my life when my husband went on a yearlong solo tour to S.Korea and has the ability to help others going through the specific struggles of military life. This mural depicts 27 portraits of active-duty military, veterans and families who responded to my call to put faces to the military mental health statistics and who believe in the power of creative therapy for the military community. Each portrait has a personal story attached to mental health and how military life has impacted them and those around them. The lyrics overtop are from P!nk’s song, “What about us?” and when looked at through a military mental health lens becomes exceptionally powerful.

The purpose of my artwork is an all-inclusive call to show the healing powers of creative therapies. With military mental health statistics on the rise and a very real stigma amongst the ranks, it’s time to get creative.

I would appreciate all the prayers and good vibes for this piece as I am entering it into the Workhouse Art center’s Arts for All: Diversity, Inclusion and Equity in the Military, an exhibition in support of the One Military, One Community (OMOC) Initiative to impact change in defense communities and help create a a better place for all service members and their families to call home. This is a juried art show meaning there are judges that read our artist statements and look at our photo submissions and make selections. The announcement will be sent April 5th! Wish us luck!