Delaware: CreatiVeterans

Photo by Joe del Tufo, Moonloop Photography, courtesy of Delaware Division of the Arts

The Delaware Division of the Arts, in partnership with the Office of Veterans Services and Mariposa Arts, recently launched the pilot program CreatiVeterans, a free, nonclinical eight-week art program provided for Delaware’s veteran population. Led by a trained teaching artist, each course introduces a range of artistic techniques and mediums, culminating in an opportunity for participants to showcase their work in a group exhibition.

A substantial body of research and practice indicates the arts are particularly impactful in supporting the emotional and physical well-being of veteran populations. Benefits of participating in art classes can include an improved quality of life, better mental health and an increased sense of connection to community. These benefits are at the heart of the CreatiVeterans initiative. The program is designed to provide Delaware’s veteran population opportunities for artistic expression, social interaction and enhanced well-being through meaningful engagement in the arts. Activities offered in the courses such as painting, sculpting or working with mixed media can improve fine motor skills and boost cognitive function by learning new skills. Part of the program’s design includes limiting classes to 12 participants in order to forge deeper connections with each other and provide personalized attention from the instructor. The exhibition further fosters social engagement by creating an opportunity for participants to share their art with friends, family and the broader community.

Classes are hosted at various nonprofit arts organizations throughout Delaware, with one location in each county. The sites are selected to be well-suited to host programming for veteran communities due to their established infrastructure, commitment to inclusivity and experience in delivering diverse arts experiences. Many of these organizations also have previously engaged with veteran groups.

For more information on CreatiVeterans, contact Delaware Division of the Arts Community Engagement Program Officer Briana Henry. To learn more about state arts agency arts and military programming, view the recording from the NASAA 2025 Learning Series session, Arts and the Military Programs.