Veterans Day 2024

A. I strive to share my “Metal Health Artwork” and my personal journey in order to inspire fellow veterans to explore the therapeutic benefits of art. I began creating scrap metal art as a coping mechanism for PTSD. On sleepless nights, I dismantled typewriters and other machinery to use the components in my artwork. Since that time, I have made a lot of progress crafting sculptures for others to enjoy. My artwork has given me a profound sense of purpose, and I am genuinely honored to have the opportunity to create a sculpture that will be prominently displayed on Veterans Day.

A. I was surprised and excited that my artwork would be seen by the world! I loved the idea of creating a recognizable sculpture to share with Google viewers that would capture the spirit of our veteran community. I learned my welding skills in the Navy Seabees, and my career as an ironworker high above Chicago gave me the experience to create sculpture by welding together various metal objects. I set out to build something incredible using upcycled materials to show the world what a Seabee "Can Do," and this soaring eagle sculpture is absolutely breathtaking.

A. I enjoy the challenge of creating lifelike bird sculptures, and I was very excited to build an eagle! I gathered meaningful components like these horseshoes that were worn by horses providing equine therapy for veterans. I also used worn-out hand tools, bicycle sprockets, and saw blades, along with carefully selected cutlery to bring this idea to life. I hope that this valiant flying eagle sculpture titled "Freedom Flight" portrays the courage and sacrifice of our military veterans and the strength of our nation on Veterans Day.

A. I would like people to know that our lives can be made better by exercising our creative minds. I began to play drums at 34 years old, and I have been creating metalwork for ten years now. It is never too late to start pursuing something that you are passionate about. I want everyone to experience the joy of creating art and music, and also the sense of accomplishment that comes after seeing others enjoy our work. I hope to inspire conversations about sustainability by keeping these materials out of landfills and giving new life to discarded objects.