In this Johnson County exhibit, veteran art serves to connect with community

Art can evoke many things in both creators and viewers.

And often, art can connect the two.

Susanne Neely hopes the connection will be made when the Peace Square Veterans Art Exhibit opens this month in Lenexa.

“Arts and creativity have long been known to help veterans find support and community, process trauma and combat challenges like PTSD and depression,” said Neely, recreation supervisor at the Department of Veterans Affairs. Lenexa Parks and Recreation.

“The purpose of this exhibition is to encourage community, sharing and artistic expression between veterans and civilian members of our community.”

The exhibit was launched by the Johnson County Arts Council.

“Place of Peace began in 2019 as an opportunity to talk about art and wellness and create opportunities to learn about the experiences of veterans,” said Sarah VanLanduyt, executive director of the Arts Council of Johnson County.

“We’re excited to see the show continue to grow. »

Last year, the Johnson County Arts Council contacted the Lenexa Arts Council about a partnership to bring the exhibit to the Lenexa City Hall Art Gallery.

The Peace Square exhibit will be on display Oct. 29 through Nov. 24 in the gallery located inside Lenexa City Hall, 17101 W. 87th St. Parkway. Gallery opening hours are 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday to Saturday and 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday.

A free opening reception and Art Talk will take place from 6 to 7:30 p.m. on November 7 at the gallery. Several artists will participate in a round table.

Earlier this year, veteran artists from all branches of the military were invited to exhibit.

“We are delighted to receive and accept the works of all 32 applicants,” Neely said. “Each artist’s personal journey is unique and the art presented in this exhibition reflects their creativity. Visitors will discover a wide variety of artistic mediums and subjects.

Neely said the show features both 2D and 3D art in a wide range of media.

“Visitors will see everything from wooden sculptures and sculptures made from recycled or found objects to paintings, photographs, colored pencils and drawings,” Neely said.

“While some of the artists in this exhibition have many years of artistic experience, others are more novice in their artistic field as they explore and develop their creative expression. Artists’ level of experience in exhibiting their work in a gallery also varies.

The subject of the exhibition is also varied.

The exhibition will include information about each of the artists, many of whom have shared their inspiration for their works.

“As with many artists, the creative process is inspired by life experiences. For some artists, the creative process is a form of therapy,” Neely said. “Visitors to the gallery will have the opportunity to learn more about the artists and their creative journey.”

Most of the pieces are for sale.