As a female marine, I learned that the battle within the mind determines one’s overall health. Although I experienced combat duty, the internal battle started years before Iraq. The emotional conflict began in my early childhood. At age 4, my life changed forever when my parents divorced. I struggled growing up, and my brother and…
Early in life, I never envisioned myself as an accomplished artist. During Desert Storm, I served aboard the L. Y. Spear AS-36. My mode of service was precision calibration of the 7th fleet’s fast-attack nuclear-powered submarines. This opened the door to a lifetime of learning. I am honored to have been a part of such…
Through my paintings, I want to convey the people and places of African Culture. I was always interested in ancient history as a child, and I loved doodling. At four years old, I was inspired by my two older brothers, who drew cartoon and comic book characters. I started drawing animals from our giant family…
The Voices collection, featured at Veterans Memorial Park for ArtPrize, also gives the audience a chance to speak. Visitors are invited to write an encouraging note on a yellow ribbon and tie it to a tree, as a way to use their voice to support those who fight for our country. Following ArtPrize, the Blue…
John Katerberg, a purple heart recipient, is a combat veteran of Desert Storm and Afghanistan. After being medically retired from the Army in 2013, John returned to Kendall College of Art and Design and earned a B.F.A. in fine art with a painting concentration. Although a lifelong resident of Western Michigan, John moved to Florida…
Following his military service, U.S. Navy veteran Ron Leigh eventually ended up at Silver Star Apartments, a housing facility for homeless veterans located in Battle Creek, Michigan. In 2013, while attending Kellogg Community College, Ron studied art, and he created a recreational-based program for Silver Star. The program focused on helping veterans develop positive friendships…