Art opens avenue for expression

On Monday evening, Feb. 23rd, I was one of over 200 people who attended a workshop of the Vet Art Project as part of the Incubator Series at the Chicago Cultural Center. As a brainchild of Project Sponsor Lisa Rosenthal, the Vet Art Project creates opportunities for veterans to work in collaboration with artists from all disciplines to create new art about war for public performance and viewing.

The Project's mission states: "The Vet Art Project is based on the belief that we must talk of war to think of peace, and an understanding that it is our veterans who will lead the way."

The evening, entitled New Art about War, included 19 staged performances, including poetry, short plays, dance and music. There was also a gallery full of haunting visual art and a film that was being screened as the audience filtered in.

As I took in the various works, I was struck by the clarity with which these veterans expressed themselves, unapologetically sharing their fear, shame, guilt and grief. They spoke of their experiences in war, the difficulties of returning home and the pride they feel for their country and its citizens.

It was amazing to see the catharsis these veterans were able to achieve when given the proper outlet, and I can only imagine what kind of relief was provided them via this opportunity. I wonder what the effect would be if warriors in more oppressed parts of the world were given an audience and a chance to strike out with their voices rather than their weapons.

Dave Strong

Chicago