Operation: Art of Valor is a community-based arts program that began in 2018 as a collaboration with the James A. Haley Veterans’ Hospital (JAHVH), one of several clinical sites for Creative Forces: NEA Military Healing Arts Network. The Network is a partnership among the National Endowment of the Arts (NEA), the U.S. Department of Defense, and Department of Veteran Affairs and state agencies that serve the special needs of military patients and veterans who have been diagnosed with traumatic brain injury and psychological health conditions such as Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). While it is therapeutic for veterans to participate in this community-based art program, it’s important to note this program is not considered therapy but serves as an opportunity for continued self-expression through the arts outside of clinical care.

The glass program began in the Spring of 2018 at the Morean Arts Center and soon developed into a structured course with a curriculum consisting of six levels of instruction. Under the guidance of professional glass artists, veterans explore different glassblowing techniques by exploiting the unique qualities of glass. They learn to manipulate molten glass in its different stages of composition to achieve different colors and forms.

Having a place where veterans can connect through experience and collaborate artistically has proven to be beneficial to program participants, and the Morean is proud to be a part of an initiative that serves military patients, veterans and the community.

All of the artwork in this exhibition was created by current participants in the program.

Operation: Art of Valor Exhibition Sponsors: