UPDATED: ‘Veterans in Focus’ exhibit shows healing power of recreation therapy

“Veterans in Focus” features the work of 14 Veterans exploring the Milwaukee community through photography.

The photos will be on display 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily, Jan. 9-19, in the Veterans Gallery at the center, 750 N. Lincoln Memorial Drive, on Milwaukee’s lakefront.

A special meet-and-greet with the Veteran photographers will be 11-11:45 a.m. Jan. 19. (The meet-and-greet was originally scheduled for Jan. 16 but was postponed due to the weather.)

In addition, the exhibit will be part of “Gallery Night MKE,” 5-9 p.m. Jan. 19, during which people can explore many of Milwaukee’s galleries and meet artists.

As part of their recreation therapy, the Veterans take lessons and learn photo techniques, then they go into the community to practice their skills. Cameras are donated to the group by the Elmbrook Rotary.

“Evidence shows many of our Veterans can heal from emotional and mental traumas through recreation therapy,” said Courtney Zeller, a recreation therapist who oversees the group. “This gives them a chance to gain confidence, express themselves and learn skills, such as planning, scheduling and communicating that they can then use in their everyday lives.”

For more information on the event, contact Courtney Zeller at 414-384-2000, ext. 45981, or courtney.zeller@va.gov.