Tucked deep in the woods of Northern Michigan, Rockwell Lodge provided the perfect backdrop for a recent Healing in Arts watercolor class with veterans from the West Michigan Alliance for Veterans. Surrounded by towering trees, a private lake, and the fresh breath of spring, the veterans gathered to paint the natural world around them—reflecting something within themselves.
This veteran felt he couldn’t draw a tree, so he created an aerial view, revealing a fresh way to see the world.
Each veteran painted a tree using watercolors. One added a path beside his tree, symbolizing a new direction and the hope of becoming “unstuck” from PTSD. Another filled his artwork with vivid, bold colors—a visual reflection of his journey out of the colorless haze of depression and into the light.
The workshop offered more than just creativity. Our time together sparked conversation, laughter, and new friendships. As bonds formed, smiles returned—and loneliness gave way to hope.