Veterans' Art Program

OAC is proud to offer US military veterans free weekly art clasess (supplies included), OAC memberships, and gallery exhibition opportunities. Classes are taught by OAC art instructors both in-person at OAC and Veterans’ Service locations, and online. Annually, we celebrate their creations with a special show in our gallery in November. Every year artworks are inspiring, personal, and powerful expressions.

This program has created a welcoming and safe community for those who have served our country. Friendships have been developed along with artistic abilities. Dan said “I am a veteran and a budding artist. It has made my life so much more satisfying.”

Older person shaping a white object, possibly clay or soap, with their hands over a silver foil tray filled with similar material. Various tools and plastic wrap are on the tray.
A group of adults at a craft or painting workshop, smiling and interacting in a well-lit room.
An elderly man and a woman are working on a craft project involving twisted copper wire to create a wire sculpture. The man is observing carefully, resting his chin on his hand, while the woman is holding the wire structure. There are scissors, a yellow cup, and a newspaper on the table.
Group of people at an art gallery, showcasing sculptures and paintings.

Boots on the Ground for Art

A film by Kevin Hanzlik, produced by Randall Vemer

We are so proud of the film that OAC instructor Randall Vemer produced about the Veterans' Art Program! It's a touching microshort documentary that showcases the hard work and dedication that our veterans have put into creating powerful art. Visit Randall’s website to view the film.

Poster for a documentary short film titled 'Boots on the Ground for Art', featuring a background image of military boots, with smaller images of military veterans doing art, and text about the film's focus on military veterans creating art.

OAC is grateful to the following funders for their generous support of this program:

Creative Forces Community Engagement Grants are part of the National Endowment for the Arts’ Creative Forces® initiative, in partnership with Mid-America Arts Alliance.

Oregon Art Center receives support from the Oregon Arts Commission, a policy-making and advisory body within the Oregon Business Development Department, and the National Endowment for the Arts.