At this Johnson County exhibit, veterans’ art serves to connect with the community

Art can evoke much from both creators and viewers.

And often, art can connect the two.

Susanne Neely hopes the connection happens when the Place of Peace Veterans’ Art Exhibit opens this month in Lenexa.

“Arts and creativity have long been known to help veterans find support and community, process trauma, and combat challenges like PTSD and depression,” said Neely, recreation supervisor in the Lenexa Parks & Recreation Department.

“The aim of this exhibit is to encourage community, sharing, and artistic expression between veterans and civilian members of our community.”

The exhibit was begun by the Arts Council of Johnson County.

“Place of Peace started in 2019 as an opportunity to talk about art and well-being and to create opportunities for learning about veterans’ experiences,” said Sarah VanLanduyt, executive director of the Arts Council of Johnson County.

“We are thrilled to see the show continue to grow.”

Last year, the Arts Council of Johnson County approached the Lenexa Arts Council about partnering to display the exhibit at the Lenexa City Hall Art Gallery.

The Place of Peace exhibit will be on display from Oct. 29 through Nov. 24 at the gallery, which is located inside Lenexa City Hall, 17101 W. 87th St. Parkway. Gallery hours are from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Saturday, and from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sundays.

An free opening reception and Art Talk will run from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Nov. 7 at the gallery. Several artists will participate in a panel discussion.

Earlier this year, artists who are veterans from all branches of the military were invited to exhibit.

“We are thrilled to receive and accept art from all 32 applicants,” Neely said. “Each artist’s personal journey is unique, and the art presented in this show reflects their creativity. Visitors will see a wide variety of art mediums and subject matter.”

Neely said the show features both 2D and 3D art in a wide range of mediums.

“Visitors will see everything from wood sculptures and sculptures made from recycled or found objects to paintings, photography, colored pencil and drawings,” Neely said.

“While some of the artists in this show have many years of artistic experience, others are newer to their art mediums as they explore and develop their creative expression. The artists’ experience level with exhibiting their art in a gallery also is varied.”

The subject matter in the exhibit is varied, as well.

The show will include information about each of the artists, many of whom have shared their inspiration for their works.

“As with many artists, the creative process is inspired by life experiences. For some artists, the creative process serves as a form of therapy,” Neely said. “Visitors to the gallery will have the opportunity to learn about the artists and their creative journey.”

Most of the pieces are for sale.