Veteran artists sought

NORWALK — The Ohio Department of Veterans Services is on the lookout for artists who happen to be military veterans to participate in the 2025 Ohio Veterans Art Exhibition. The department, through its ongoing partnership with the Ohio Arts Council, said it is pleased to present the 2025 Ohio Veterans Art Exhibition, on display in downtown Columbus later this year. "Ohio's active duty and veteran artists are invited to showcase their artistic talents for this wide-ranging event, which will be viewable in the first-floor lobby of the Vern Riffe Center for Government and the Arts," according to a release from the veterans services department. Selected works will be displayed in the lobby area outside the Ohio Arts Council's Riffe Gallery, located in the Vern Riffe Center for Government and the Arts, Oct. 21 through Dec. 6. Artists are asked to submit projects utilizing any medium and the art doesn't require a military theme. "While space is limited for this exhibition, we welcome all suitable mediums, including 3-dimensional pieces," the release states. "We also welcome entries from veteran artists of varying backgrounds and levels of expertise. Keep in mind that your artwork does not necessarily need to depict aspects of military service." Huron County Veteran Service Officer Mike Simkins encourages anyone interested in entering the contest to take the plunge and put in an entry. He knows several veterans who find creating art cathartic. "If art is your outlet, this is a very encouraging avenue, especially if you are struggling with PTSD or mental health issues," Simkins said. "It can be a happy place." Simkins encourages veterans and non-veterans alike to find activities that calm their minds and become a "release" for negative or intrusive thoughts. "Art can be a great coping and release mechanism," he said. "I find mine in music but everyone finds theirs in a different place." The art will be judged by "an expert juror and Ohio veteran" although that person will be named at a later date, according to the release. Artists entering the exhibition must be a current member of the United States Armed Forces or veteran and currently living in Ohio. For submission guidelines and to submit artwork, visit ohioveteransartexhibition2025.artcall.org or contact Ali Yogmour by email at Ali.Yogmour@dvs.ohio.gov, or by phone, at 614-752-8941.