CreatiVeterans

Delaware CreatiVeterans

CreatiVeterans is an eight-week art course, hosted at convenient locations at organizations throughout Delaware. Led by a trained teaching artist, this course introduces a range of artistic techniques and mediums to explore. No prior experience is required, as the teaching artist will guide you through each step of the process. You’ll have the chance to express yourself, connect with fellow veterans, and experience the power of creativity. At the end of the course, you will have the opportunity to showcase your work in an exhibition, providing an opportunity to share your artistic achievements with family, friends, and the community.

The Delaware CreatiVeterans Program, in partnership with the Office of Veterans Services, is designed to provide Delaware’s veteran population with opportunities for artistic expression, social interaction, and enhanced well-being through meaningful engagement in the arts.

Hear About The Impact >>>

Upcoming Classes

American Legion Stahl Post 30 - The Courage to Create

Venue: American Legion Stahl Post 30, 156 A N Dupont Hwy, New Castle, DE 19720

Class: The Courage to Create

Teaching Artist: Jane Quartarone

Class Dates: Wednesdays, April 8-June 3 from 3-5pm (Participants should expect to attend all classes)

Culminating Event: Wednesday, June 3 from 3-5pm

We are all born creative and often just need direction, opportunity, and a safe space to explore. With just paper and pencil, you’ll begin discovering your own visual language—letting go of “perfect” and embracing mistakes as part of the process. This course explores new ways of seeing through both realism and abstract art. Using graphite and a variety of colorful drawing materials, you’ll build confidence, crush creative fear, and express your unique point of view.

The workshop series will culminate with a celebratory event featuring the participants’ artwork. No previous experience is necessary.

Click here to register >>>

Smyrna VFW Post 8801 - Gelli Plate Printing with Es

Venue: Smyrna VFW Post 8801, 4941 Wheatleys Pond Rd, Smyrna, DE 19977

Class: Gelli Plate Printing with “Es”

Teaching Artist: Es Curtis

Class Dates: Tuesdays, April 7-June 2 from 5-7pm (Participants should expect to attend all classes)

Culminating Event: Tuesday, June 2 from 5-7pm

Try out this incredibly satisfying art form and rethink how you “paint.” A gelli plate is a gelatin-like plate made of solidified mineral oil. We will explore transferring magazine images, preserving nature and everything in between! Create beautiful gelli plate art, page after page, learn the basics, and dive into more complex projects throughout the course of this class. The possibilities are endless!

The workshop series will culminate with a celebratory event featuring the participants’ artwork. No previous experience is necessary.

Click here to register >>>

American Legion Post 17 - The Power of Visual Creativity

Venue: American Legion Post 17, 113 American Legion Rd, Lewes, DE 19958

Class: The Power of Visual Creativity

Teaching Artist: Barbara Calkins

Class Dates: Thursdays, April 9-June 4 from 12-2pm (Participants should expect to attend all classes)

Culminating Event: Thursday, June 4 from 12-2pm

Drawing inspiration from iconic artists and our own lives, this class explores a wide range of materials—from paint and paper to graphic images, natural objects, and upcycled items. Participants will tap into their creative power, strengthen skills, and learn more about their personal creative process while building community with fellow Veterans. Open to all levels, classes include material introductions, demonstrations, one-on-one and group guidance, journal prompts, and guided meditations to help you discover your own creative voice.

The workshop series will culminate with a celebratory event featuring the participants’ artwork. No previous experience is necessary.

Click here to register >>>

What is CreatiVeterans?

CreatiVeterans is an eight-week art course, hosted at convenient locations throughout Delaware. Led by a trained teaching artist, this course introduces a range of artistic techniques and mediums to explore. No prior experience is required, as the teaching artist will guide you through each step of the process. You’ll have the chance to express yourself, connect with fellow veterans, and experience the power of creativity. At the end of the course, you will have the opportunity to showcase your work in an exhibition, providing an opportunity to share your artistic achievements with family, friends, and the community.

Where Have CreatiVeterans Programs Taken Place?

In its first year, events happened at arts organizations statewide. Many of these organizations have a history of engaging with various community groups, including veterans, and are dedicated to providing safe and welcoming environments. By participating in programs offered by these organizations, veterans can trust that they are engaging in activities within safe, supportive, and professionally managed settings.

In subsequent years, the Division will look at new partners for hosting.

Winter 2025:

New Castle County Art Studio: Working with Clay – Taught by Christine Gonzalez

Biggs Museum of American Art: Gelli Plate Printing with “Es” – Taught by Es Curtis

Rehoboth Art League: The Bold and The Playful: Mixed-Media Collage Making – Taught by Vanita Leatherwood

Why Are Programs Like This Important?

Art programs are essential for you as a veteran, offering a meaningful way to support your social well-being and overall quality of life. Engaging in the arts allows you to express yourself in new and creative ways, which can bring joy and satisfaction. Art activities stimulate your mind, helping to boost cognitive function, mental agility, and resilience. They provide you with opportunities to learn new skills and techniques, fostering a sense of accomplishment and confidence as you master new forms of creative expression.

One of the greatest benefits of art programs is their ability to help you build connections and foster a sense of community. Transitioning to civilian life can sometimes feel isolating, but participating in group art activities provides a space where you can interact with others who share your interests and experiences. These programs create shared experiences and promote collaboration, helping you form meaningful relationships and develop strong support networks. This sense of belonging can boost your confidence in social settings and enrich your life with shared moments of understanding and fun.

Art programs also offer physical benefits, such as improving fine motor skills through activities like painting, sculpting, or working with mixed media. These activities can contribute to relaxation, enhancing your overall physical comfort and well-being. Importantly, art programs offer a space for self-discovery and growth. They invite you to explore new hobbies and develop a renewed sense of purpose, enriching your life with personal fulfillment and creativity. Through art, you can find balance, joy, and a new way to thrive in your post-service journey.