Veterans Suffering From Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
to Showcase Art Created in Therapy Program
Exhibit at Front Porch Gallery to kick off nationwide tour

( CARLSBAD , CA ) — Beginning July 10, the Front Porch Gallery will showcase art created in an innovative art therapy program by veterans suffering from Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).

The exhibit, titled, A Show of Patriotism: The Art of Healing Heroes, will run through September 5 and feature artwork created by veterans who have PTSD and have worked with artist, teacher and journalist Joel Harris. Over the last three years, Harris has worked with veterans at the Veterans Administration Medical Center in La Jolla and Scripps Memorial Hospital in Encinitas , California . Harris has developed a uniquely caring and effective art-therapy program for soldiers returning from combat, and others such as stroke victims, many with disabling brain trauma or amputational limb injuries. These events can often lead to PTSD.

According to some experts, one important aspect of art therapy is the creation of a safe space where these traumatic feelings can be processed. Sometimes the verbal skill is lacking to describe traumatic experiences and by creating art, the person can feel more confident.

“Art expression can renew the ability to imagine and communicate through visual means, a wellness practice that is natural to us,” Harris said. “Imagery and imagination are forms of complimentary therapy that have the capacity to produce positive physical changes in the body, enhance emotional resilience and help us to cope with life's difficult moments. On display will be drawings and artwork created in these programs.”

“Our new exhibit features the transformative effects of Joel’s uniquely effective art-therapy program for soldiers returning from combat,” said Front Porch Gallery Director Steve Nossan. “Joel has developed a unique approach with non-artists to use illustration as part of an inner healing process aimed at touching the soul and create a sense of wholeness for the artist.”

The Front Porch Gallery summer event will kick-off a nationwide tour of the exhibit.
An opening reception will take place from
noon-3 p.m. July 10 at the Front Porch Gallery
which will feature, beginning at 1 p.m.,
a drawing demonstration by Harris and guest artists.
Refreshments will be served between noon and 2 p.m.
as well as a musical performance by Clay Colton.

The Front Porch Gallery believes the creation of art is a manifestation of the human spirit and the sharing of that art creates community. Its mission is to use art as a catalyst for more vibrant, creative communities and an understanding of aging as a spiritual journey.

The Gallery, located at 2903 Carlsbad Boulevard ,
adjacent to Carlsbad By The Sea retirement community in Carlsbad ,
was launched seven years ago with a grant from California Lutheran Homes
and is supported by Front Porch and the Pacific Homes Foundation.

Front Porch Gallery hours are noon to 6 p.m.,
Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays and 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Saturdays and Sundays.
For more information about the Gallery or the A Show of Patriotism:
The Art of Healing Heroes exhibit,
contact Steve Nossan or Julie Weaverling at 760-795-6120.