Creative Forces
Interdisciplinary Art Classes for Veterans
How it began
Creative Forces began in 2023 through a partnership between the Arts Council of Southeast Missouri and the Cape Girardeau Veterans Affairs Whole Health Program. Veteran and former Arts Council Board Member Neal Joiner wanted to teach oil painting to fellow veterans, and the partnership quickly grew into something much larger. As more veterans became involved, the program expanded to include additional painting classes, beginner guitar lessons, yoga, and other creative opportunities.
About the program
Today, Creative Forces is an interdisciplinary arts and wellness program that provides veterans with opportunities to create, connect, and heal through the arts. Beginning in 2025, the Arts Council assumed responsibility for coordinating the program and now works directly with service members to offer a variety of visual and performing arts experiences in a welcoming, community-centered environment. Creative Forces reflects our belief that creativity can foster connection, personal growth, and well-being.
Get involved
Creative Forces is open to veterans interested in exploring the arts in a supportive community. To learn more or begin participating, contact Bryan Ewers at bryanewers1@gmail.com.
A special thank you to our service members - whether they be deployed, garrison, or weekend warriors.
-The Arts Council
Want to support The
Creative Forces Program?
Your support makes programs like Creative Forces possible. By donating or becoming a member of the Arts Council, you help provide veterans with meaningful opportunities to connect, create, and express themselves through the arts. Your generosity helps ensure that Creative Forces continues to offer accessible arts experiences, supplies, and programming for those who have served our country.