The Quick Center for the Arts of Fairfield University hosts hundreds of arts and education events throughout the year; in fact, the QCA is on track to reach 50,000 patrons for the ”™13-”™14 school year. Embedded in our mission is the desire to form partnerships with on- and off-campus constituencies, in alignment with the university”™s overall desire to support its greater community.
As part of this important mission, the QCA has forged a new partnership with the Creative Arts Therapies programs of Veterans Affairs Connecticut Healthcare System in West Haven. Recently, the QCA highlighted the work of the veterans and gave them two unique opportunities to showcase their artistry.
The Creative Arts Therapies programs include music therapy, drama therapy, and creative writing. Through arts therapy the veterans experience a reactivation of positive emotions, rediscovery of individual strengths, alleviation of pain and stress, physical rehabilitation, along with the development of a sense of belonging. These arts experiences make a significant difference for veterans recovering from traumatic brain injuries, PTSD, cognitive and physical disabilities, substance abuse problems and chronic mental illnesses.
As a part of the collaboration, an exhibit of more than 50 pieces of art by veterans ”” paintings, drawings, photographs, and three-dimensional pieces ”” was featured in the QCA. These artworks powerfully demonstrated the multiplicity of their experiences, aspirations and visions, each honest and touching.
Additionally, veterans of the theater and music therapy programs presented an unforgettable evening in our Wien Experimental Theatre. The participating veterans connected with the audience through highly creative, emotional pieces in a personally cathartic expression of both their strength and vulnerability.
Growing up as a musician, I am very familiar with a quote by the composer Robert Schumann, “To send light into darkness of men”™s hearts ”” such is the duty of the artist.” In this case, it is true that the veterans, through their art, sent a warm light into the hearts of the audience and their own.
Working with the veterans reinforces our beliefs about the capabilities of the arts, and entices us to continue these essential partnerships. For more information, please visit our website at fairfield.edu/lifeatfairfield/
artsminds//quickcenterforthearts/ or call us at 203-254-4010.
Gary Wood, director
Quick Center for the Arts
of Fairfield University
Member, Cultural Alliance
of Fairfield County
