WILMINNGTON — A partnership among Cameron Art Museum, Veterans Creative Arts Program and the City of Wilmington will allow local veterans, first responders, and their families opportunities to connect history and art.
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A Veterans Creative Arts Program will take place for free on Feb. 21, 9:30 a.m., hosted by local history expert Andy Fairbanks and CAM’s Cultural Curator Daniel Jones. The two will lead “On the Road to Freedom Walk,” to begin at Halyburton Park and end at the USCT Park at CAM.
The goal is to bring to life the hike of the 1,800 United States Colored Troops who fought for their on freedom in Wilmington during the Civil War. The hike will retrace their steps taken on Feb. 20, 1865, as they marched along Federal Point Road and fought for two days on the grounds of what is now Cameron Art Museum. Attendees will learn about the park’s natural history and the landscape.
At 11 a.m., learning will center on the PNC USCT Park at Cameron Art Museum, including a tour of the public sculpture “Boundless,” created by North Carolina artist Stephen Hayes. The artist cast figures in bronze to commemorate the USCT. Following at 11:30 a.m. will be collage artist Marcus Dawson leading “Collaging Our Stories” art class. The goal is to take visuals and elements from everyday life — found materials, photographs, type, and more — to make a collage filled with texture, color, shape and patterns. Composition and balance will be covered, though the class is more than centered on art, it’s a chance to explore self-care and healing through artmaking.
“Cameron Art Museum is grateful to those who have served our country in the armed forces and is proud to offer programming specifically for veterans,” CAM Executive Director Heather Wilson said in a release. “Studies show that the arts can have a positive impact on veterans, while also building community. Evidence-based research shows that art-based activities can improve mindfulness and reduce negative feelings associated with stress, anxiety, depression, and trauma. We are thrilled to present this programming and grateful for the partnerships with the community that make it possible.”
Free registration is open here.
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