Countless veterans continue to suffer debilitating mental health challenges alone and by themselves. They are tormented by memories and experiences that have consumed their every waking moment, and in many cases sleep simply becomes an intolerable torture in which they can not escape.
Post Traumatic Stress disorder (PTSD) from military service has also impacted my family and loved ones. I know first-hand how PTSD can strip an individual, a family or a community of purpose, quality of life, and hope. As an Artist, and survivor of PTSD, I have committed to working with many Veterans from Across Canada by painting their portrait in what has become known as the Red Blanket Project.
The portraits are Self-represented without wearing their uniform. They are dressed casually as they are in their recovery and treatments, and covered with a red blanket, which symbolizes courage, passion, and life force (resilience). The integrations of symbols as shadows represents trades or branches and or anything that connects to the personal story of the person depicted in the artwork.
This project is the result of a three years’ work made possible by the generous sharing of everyone who has entrusted me with their personal stories and images. Some paintings are complete, and others are not, as is the process of healing. In every work I seek to capture the essence of those who I have painted or drawn in hopes of creating a dialogue with the viewer. Their gaze throughout the picture plane, pensive faces and the dreamy use of reflective metals is a means to express their realness of emotions, to preserve an aspect of our human condition. The project also holds some of my self portraits as response to the stories I have heard.
The aim of this project is to create social awareness, addressing issues surrounding PTSD, and supporting Andy Carswell Housing to provide necessary programs of support for those in need. It is my hope and desire that these portraits will serve as a multi-generational testimony highlighting the humanity, sacrifice and challenges faced by these individuals who bravely continue to share their courage in healing. Above all it is my desire to help spread the message to those suffering veterans, their families who are there every step of the way and indeed all Canadians, that “Heroes Can Ask for Help” and that they are cherished, valued, and loved.
