Cheyenne Veteran’s Art Show Coming Soon

Artwork by Veterans will be on display to the public at the American Legion Post 6, 2001 E. Lincolnway, in Cheyenne on Thursday, Feb. 25, from 4 to 6:30 p.m. and on Friday, Feb. 26, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

“Many of our Veterans from norther Colorado, western Nebraska and southeast Wyoming work all year preparing for the Veterans Art Competition,” said Shelley Shively, recreational therapist at the Cheyenne Veteran Affairs Medical Center and project manager for this event. “I am thrilled to be a part of this program, and excited to see the community join in support of our Veterans,” she said.

Event organizers expect more than 50 pieces of art from among 10 different categories to be exhibited. Categories consist of fine art such as painting, drawing, sculpture and photography; applied art that includes ceramics, carving, needlework and leatherwork; and craft kits such as string art, fabric art and wood building.

The first place winning piece from each category will advance on to the national level where they will compete with entries submitted by Veterans from other VA facilities around the country.

The competition is an annual event that provides Veterans receiving treatment at VA facilities the opportunity to participate in creative self-expression in art, creative writing, dance, drama and music as part of their therapy, and to gain recognition for these artistic accomplishments.

First place winners from the national competition will be invited to attend the National Veterans Creative Arts Festival, hosted this year by the Jackson VA Medical Center in Jackson, Miss., October 10 –17.