GRAND JUNCTION, Colo. (KREX) – An event centering on the veteran community's creative talents will soon occur in the Grand Valley.
VA Western Colorado is hosting the Creative Arts Festival from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Aug. 20-23, at its main campus, 2121 North Ave. building six in Grand Junction.
The event will have five divisions: fine art, drama, music, dance and creative writing. There are 144 entries from 58 participants.
VA Western Colorado said in a press release the festival allows "veterans to express themselves emotionally, find therapeutic release and connect with a supportive community." It has been shown that engaging in creative endeavors helps cognitive and physical skills, boost self-esteem, promote mindfulness and aid in personal growth, according to the VA.
"Creative art therapy plays a crucial role in the healing process, offering veterans a unique and powerful means of expression beyond words. It allows for the exploration of emotions, the release of stress and the fostering of resilience in ways that traditional therapy may not reach,” VA Western Colorado Health Care System Executive Director Richard Salgueiro said in a press release.
“Through the transformative power of art, we can connect with our inner selves, unlock hidden strengths and embark on a journey of self-discovery and emotional well-being. As a director, I have witnessed firsthand the profound impact that creative art therapy can have on our veterans, and I am continually inspired by the resilience and growth it fosters."
This year's event will introduce the Director's Pick, an award for the most outstanding piece across all categories.
For more information about the Creative Arts Festival, visit grandjunction.va.gov or call 970-242-0731.