Crafting Stories, Piece by Piece: Announcing New Classes for Veterans
Over the past year, Piece by Piece has been honored to work closely with the veteran community in collaboration with LA Metro to design a new mural for the Purple Line extension. This journey allowed us to engage with over 100 veterans, offering them a canvas to express themselves through mosaic workshops, a process that resonated deeply with each individual.
We are thrilled to announce that our work with veterans is able to continue thanks to generous funding from Creative Forces®: NEA Military Healing Arts Network — an initiative of the National Endowment for the Arts in partnership with the U.S. Departments of Defense and Veterans Affairs. This funding supports Piece by Piece in launching new, free classes specifically for veterans. This initiative is aimed at enhancing the health, well-being, and quality of life for veterans, their families, and caregivers.
Instructor Bea supporting veterans as they create their mosaics.
New Classes, New Beginnings
We invite veterans, along with their families and caregivers, to explore the therapeutic power of art in our new classes. Join us every Monday at 1 pm at the Piece by Piece South Broadway Studios and every Friday at 10 am at the Heroes Golf Course at the West LA VA. These locations have been chosen for their accessibility to the veteran community, with the West LA workshops being presented in partnership with Village For Vets. For more information please reach out to Jadie.
Workshops: Havens of Expression and Understanding
Our workshops are designed to be a haven of expression and understanding. We are grateful to be partnering with Village for Vets for this project. Their mission is to fill critical gaps in key services for homeless and at-risk Veterans on their journey to stability and independence in greater Los Angeles and beyond. In the workshops, we practice trauma-informed care, nurturing a space where everyone is met with empathy and respect. These sessions are more than just a creative outlet; they are sanctuaries where veterans can find their voice, share their stories, and forge deep connections with others.
We have ensured accessibility for all, with ADA-compliant workspaces and the presence of support artists ready to assist, facilitating full engagement in the creative process, irrespective of physical or visual challenges.
Mosaic arts class for veterans in session
A Rich History of Support
Piece by Piece stands on a rich history of supporting the veteran community through mosaic art classes and workshops that serve as healing sanctuaries. From the creation of the heartwarming “Purple Heart” Mosaic Mural to wellness programs at the Long Beach VA, we have been witnesses to the transformative power of art in fostering healing and building community.
As we forge ahead, we carry with us the vibrant stories and resilient spirits of our veteran community, eager to craft a mural that stands as a beacon of hope, resilience, and unity.
