YOUR ASSISTANCE IS CRITICAL
Due to the lack of standardized equipment, our ability to provide consistent, effective learning and healing experiences has been fragmented. We need your support to create a unified equipment list that will enable us to instruct our participants more efficiently and effectively. Standardization will not only enhance the quality of our training allowing our participants to process their trauma through more focused efforts, but it will also allow for more accurate data collection, which is crucial to improving our evaluation and program outcomes. Your help will directly contribute to better service for our participants and stronger overall results.
PROGRAMS
PHASE I: FUNDAMENTALS OF ART
These are week long events held throughout the year provide 2-3 dedicated art programs at each event (photography, drawing, and creative writing) and will add a variety of programs to each event, proportionately, as our foundation grows. The purpose of the programs are to establish a fundamental understanding of the specific Art Program, its associated terminology, as well as to expose Service Members (SM) and Veterans to the proper tools needed based on the medium and genre of the specified program.
These Events allow SMs and veterans to identify which art program they want to explore, then learn ways to be creative in the approach they utilize to express themselves; all while integrating aspects of Imaginal Therapy.
PHOTOGRAPHY FUNDAMENTALS
Introduction to photography as visual expression. This course covers the use of digital photography as a powerful communication tool central to self-expression. While experimenting with manual camera controls and digital workflow in the context of professional conventions, participants explore imaginative visual communication applications and dynamic self expression within photography.
DRAWING FUNDAMENTALS
Participants learn basic skills and techniques for drawing from direct observation using subjects such as still life, landscape, and architecture. The depiction of form, light, and spatial depth is emphasized along with accurate proportion and scale. Research tools such as thumbnail sketches, quick studies, sketchbooks, and digital resources are used to develop ideas. Analysis of drawings, critiques, and classroom discussions build vocabulary and enrich the students' understanding of drawing.
PAINTING FUNDAMENTALS
Participants examine the connection between material application and meaning through the use of both traditional and contemporary applications of water-based media. Employing versatile processes for planning and developing a visual idea, students explore techniques such as wet-into-wet, dry-brush paint application, and masking. Prerequisite: Drawing Fundamentals
SCULPTING FUNDAMENTALS
Participants explore the unique properties of various malleable materials like clay and utilize basic techniques, essential to the creation of well-crafted and engaging sculptures. Through hands-on experience, students learn appropriate uses of tools and techniques to realize the expressive qualities of sculptural forms.
CREATIVE NONFICTION WRITING FUNDAMENTALS
From lyric essays to powerful memoirs, from food writing to travel stories, creative nonfiction is a versatile art form that traverses a multitude of subjects. Students develop their own styles and voices, moving beyond the boundaries of traditional nonfiction genres to present truthful stories of people, places, and events.
PHASE II: ADVANCED ART TECHNIQUES
These events are a week long and hosted in a variety of locations around the U.S. based on course themes. Participation is offered to participants who have graduated from the required fundamentals of art program and are selected based on their interest. These events expand on the Fundamentals of Art and delve more into the respective genre, so that Service Members (SM) and Veterans can learn more specific and creative skillsets required to convey what they want to express.
The aim of these advanced events are to begin shifting the focus from the intrusive memories of their trauma, towards the thoughts of the present and future, concentrating on the beauty that still remains in the world and within themselves.
ADVANCED WILDLIFE ART COURSE
Graduates from our Fundamental of Art Programs will be offered to explorer locations like Yellowstone and the Grand Tetons to learn wildlife photography, plein air painting/drawing, or more inspired writing sessions.
ADVANCED LANDSCAPE ART COURSE
Graduates from our Fundamental of Art Programs will be offered to explorer locations like Zion National Park, Grand Canyon, and Niagara Falls to learn advanced landscape photography, plein air painting/drawing, or more inspired writing sessions.
ADVANCED EDITORIAL PHOTOGRAPHY COURSE
Graduates from our Fundamental of Art Programs will be offered to join our advanced photography course focused on Editorial and Fashion photography.
ADVANCED PRODUCT/STILL LIFE ART COURSE
Graduates from our Fundamental of Art Programs will be offered to join our advanced product and still life courses focused on Product and Still Life photography, drawing, painting, and sculpting.
ADVANCED PAINTING
Graduates from our Fundamental of Art Programs will be offered to join our advanced painting courses focused on creative acrylic portrait techniques.
PHASE III: GALLERY ART SHOWS
In our final phase of healing we host an annual Gallery Art Show. The show focuses on connecting the Service Members (SM) and veterans with industry leaders, managers, publicists, or agencies to assist the SM or Veteran artist in a path towards a career as a new and emerging artist, while simultaneously allowing the local community to show their support and interact with SMs and Veterans.