CreatiVeterans is an eight-week art course, hosted at convenient locations at nonprofit art 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 and Mariposa Arts, is designed to provide Delaware’s veteran population with opportunities for artistic expression, social interaction, and enhanced mental and physical health through meaningful engagement in the arts.
Working with Clay – taught by Christine Gonzalez
Participants will learn hand building techniques with clay including pinching, coiling, slab construction, and incorporating texturing techniques and designs in an encouraging, supportive, and respectful space. Participants will also be working with low-fire glazes on their pieces. Projects will include pinch pots, coil pots, cups, and more. Each participant will receive clay and their own set of tools.
The workshop series will culminate with a celebratory event featuring the participants’ artwork. No previous experience is necessary.
Location: New Castle County Art Studio at 310 Kiamensi Road, Wilmington, DE 19804. You need not reside in the county that the program is being held at.
Cost: FREE for Delaware veterans
Class limit: 12 participants
Class Schedule: Classes will occur on Thursdays from 5-7pm on the following dates:
Gelli Plate Printing with “Es” – taught by Esther Curtis
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.
Location: Biggs Museum of American Art at 406 Federal St, Dover, DE 19901. You need not reside in the county that the program is being held at.
Cost: FREE for Delaware veterans
Class limit: 12 participants
Class Schedule: Classes will occur on Fridays from 1-3pm on the following dates:
The Bold & The Playful: Mixed-Media Collage Making – taught by Vanita Leatherwood
During this eight-session workshop series participants may be playful and bold and anything in between as they experience the fun of mixed-media collage making. In this introductory class participants will explore the use of craft embellishments, paper, and “found art” materials to create mixed-media collages on wood. The creative process includes guided reflection work using music, quotes/affirmations and sharing with others as the catalyst to create three mixed-media pieces of various shapes/sizes. The third and final piece will be a 12”x12 “plaque.
The workshop series will culminate with a celebratory event featuring the participants’ artwork. No previous experience is necessary.
Location: Rehoboth Art League at 12 Dodds Ln, Rehoboth Beach, DE 19971. You need not reside in the county that the program is being held at.
Cost: FREE for Delaware veterans
Class limit: 12 participants
Class Schedule: Classes will occur on Wednesdays from 9-11am on the following dates:
CreatiVeterans is an eight-week art course, hosted at convenient locations at nonprofit art 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.
In this first year, events will happen at arts organizations statewide. Arts organizations in Delaware are well-suited to host programming for veteran communities due to their established infrastructure, commitment to inclusivity, and experience in delivering diverse arts experiences. 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.
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 and reduce muscle tension, 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.
Briana Henry
Community Engagement
302-577-8282, Wilmington/Dover
Carvel State Office Building
820 North French Street,
4th Floor
Wilmington, DE 19801
302.577.8278 |
302.577.6561
Email Us
FOIA Request Form
State Arts Council Intranet
Delaware's Governor
State Directory
Elected Officials
General Assembly
Delaware Courts
State Employees
Cities & Towns
Delaware State Code
State Regulations
Business First Steps
Phone Directory
Locations Directory
Public Meetings
Voting & Elections
Transparency
Choose Health DE
Tax Center
Personal Income Tax
Privacy Policy
Weather & Travel
Contact Us
Corporations
Franchise Tax
Gross Receipts Tax
Withholding Tax
Guides to Services
Help Center
Mobile Apps
E-mail / Text Alerts
Social Media
