EVAC: Experiencing Veterans & Artists Collaboration

Title of Accompanying Program: Art without Limits: VR Technology
Dates of Program: Saturdays, May 25th & June 1st, 1-3:00pm

Today, the world feels increasingly divided. As people segment into online echo chambers, we find it difficult to understand other’s experiences. This is especially true where trauma is concerned- the more painful and complicated the memory, the deeper the riff it can create.

Such isolation is a persistent problem in the veteran community, as many who have served feel profoundly separated from their civilian counterparts. This summer, the Artists Archives will host an exhibition which helps to bridge the gap between service members and society.

Experiencing Veterans & Artist Collaborations (EVAC) is a touring exhibition organized by Lee Fearnside, Joseph Van Kerkhove and Dr. John Schupp, 3 Tiffin University curators who paired veterans from World War II through the Post 9/11 period, and all branches of the military, with artists who interpret their stories.

As curator Lee Fearnside explains, “Mental health providers are losing the battle with helping veterans in part because veterans feel isolated and don’t want to ask for help. Studies show veterans who share their stories may help with PTSD recovery. With EVAC, veterans have an opportunity to share their stories one time, and to have that story impact many people.”

The 28 works on display are created through a variety of printmaking techniques and are exhibited with excerpts from the veterans’ interviews. Some images are heart-rending, some funny, and others out-right terrifying, but they are unified by stunning execution and a deep reverence for the stories they share. The show features national artists as well as 11 artists from Ohio, including Tom Balbo, Erin Holscher-Almazan, Suzanne Chouteau, Maggie Denk-Leigh, Lee Fearnside, Sophie Knee, Liz Maugans, Kathy McGhee, Jonpaul Smith, Joe Van Kerkhove, and Michael Weigman.

Using storytelling and art, EVAC educates the public about life in the military through empathy and creative expression. As the EVAC organization describes “[the exhibition] gives glimpses into real people’s lived experiences. It creates an environment for a viewer that invites genuine understanding and engagement. The process of storytelling and interpretation central to EVAC makes it a project uniquely positioned to promote empathy from multiple groups – the artist and viewer for the veteran’s experience, and the veteran for the artist’s realization of their stories.”

EVAC will open with reception on Thursday, May 16th, from 5:30 – 8:00pm at the Artists Archives of the Western Reserve. The event will be celebrated with veteran owned and operated The Sweet Spot gelato truck, as well as light refreshments. As always, AAWR openings are FREE and open to the public with free parking available in our adjacent lot as well as on East 123rd Street.

For additional information on Project EVAC, please visit their website, www.evacproject.org

As part of the EVAC exhibition, the Archives will host programming that explores alternative means of art production. Art Bites- Professional Practices: Art without Limits: VR Technology presented by Blue Robot LLC will be held on May 25 and June 1 and provide artists the opportunity to create in a virtual reality environment. Limit: 10 participants per session. Registration required (please call 216.721.9020)