A Week of Healing, Art and Honor at the National Veterans Creative Arts Festival
By Orlando Ford, Public Affairs Specialist
From June 9 - 13, I attended the National Veterans Creative Arts Festival in Columbia, South Carolina, and the experience stayed with me long after I returned home. If I had to describe the week in five words, they would be "amazing, emotional, inspirational, overwhelming, and unifying."
Even those words did not fully capture what the festival meant to me.
The moment I stepped off the plane, I felt welcomed. A Disabled American Veterans staff member greeted us right at the gate and guided us to the Creative Arts welcome table. Where staff helped tag our luggage, made sure we knew which hotel we were headed to, and provided water and snacks. I laughed to myself because it felt like they had heard my stomach growling. That kindness continued at the hotel, at the opening ceremony and throughout the entire week.
A Celebration of Creativity and Community
Well over 100 Veterans from across the country attended this year’s festival, each bringing their own story, talent, and journey. Among them were 35 visual artists, 9 creative writers, and 70 performers, ranging in age from 32 to 87. Representation from the branches was strong: Army 51, Navy 26, Air Force 24, Marine Corps 10, and Coast Guard 3.
The Tucson VA Medical Center sent two Veterans to the festival. I attended the festival as a gold medalist for my drama short video, titled "Through My Lens: Healing in Focus." Fellow Tucson Veteran Matthew Tucker earned a gold medal for his monochromatic drawing of a dog named Mellow.
“When Miranda told me we were going to South Carolina, I was nervous but excited,” Tucker told me. “But being around other Veteran artists made me feel comfortable right away. I did not see disability in anyone here. I only saw ability.”
Tucker said the performances filled him with ideas. “My mind was going crazy with inspiration. I wanted to write, draw, and maybe even learn the bongos. I felt like I was going home with more tools on my palette.”
The Power of Creative Arts Therapy
Southern Arizona VA Health Care System Creative Arts Therapist Miranda Blakeslee traveled with us and watched the impact of the festival unfold on all Veterans that attended.
“Creativity keeps us healthy, keeps us whole, and connects Veterans in ways nothing else can. Seeing them expressive, joyful, and in their element is why this festival matters,” Blakeslee said.
She encouraged Veterans back home to participate in the local Tucson showcase. “Entries are open until August first,” she said. “You do not have to make it to nationals to be part of something meaningful.”
Workshops, Camaraderie and a Community That Cared
Each day was full. I attended an acting class, a workshop on the VA mobile app and a wallet-making session that turned out to be calming and enjoyable. I shared tables, conversations, and laughter with Veterans from every branch of service.
The performances throughout the week were fantastic. The singing, the dancing, the drama reenactments, and the improv shows were powerful and full of joy. Watching other Veterans express themselves so freely inspired me in a way I did not expect. I felt a pull to pick up my guitar again, knock the dust off and finally start learning how to play it. The creativity around me reminded me that it was never too late to begin something new.
The week also gave me moments I will never forget. Two of my children and my grandchildren were able to attend the first performance night and watch my video on the big screen. Seeing their faces in the audience filled me with pride. I also held my newest granddaughter, Nova Grace, for the very first time. That moment alone made the entire trip unforgettable.
We also attended a Columbia Fireflies baseball game where Creative Arts Festival Veterans were honored on the field for a group photo. The meals were another highlight. Breakfast at the hotel and lunch and dinner at the festival center were always delicious, and the desserts were unforgettable.
Leaders Who Believed in the Healing Power of Art
Throughout the week, VA leaders and partners reminded us that the festival was about more than medals.
Rachel McArdle, Ph.D., Deputy Executive Director of VA Rehabilitation and Prosthetic Services, told us, “You have shown how creativity can shape recovery, foster community, and inspire hope. Stay engaged in the arts when you return home. Your VA community is here to support you."
Amy Kimbler, Director of the National Veterans Creative Arts Festival, praised the dedication of staff, volunteers, and Veterans.
“Veterans truly fill our cups during this week,” she said. “Our purpose is to serve you, but you give us so much more in return.”
Pam Ray, National President of the American Legion Auxiliary, encouraged us to continue creating.
“I hope you connected with someone this week,” Ray said. “That is what this festival is all about. Please come back and compete again. We would love to see you next year.”
A Farewell That Stayed with Me
On the final morning, as we prepared to fly home, Columbia VA leadership and American Legion Auxiliary volunteers gathered to send us off. Their warm farewell was simple but deeply meaningful. It reminded me that we were seen, valued, and supported.
Why This Festival Mattered
The National Veterans Creative Arts Festival was not only about art, music, dance, or writing. It was about healing. It was about rediscovering purpose. It was about community.
It was about Veterans like me finding strength in creativity and connection.
And it was about knowing that no matter where we came from or what we had been through, we were united through the power of the arts.
For more information on how to enter the Creative Arts Festival, please contact Miranda Blakeslee, Creative Arts Therapist, at Miranda.Blakeslee@va.gov or