This new report identifies potential topics in need of research, as well as resources and actions to support that research. The report is designed to inspire collaboration, innovation, and investment in research on creative arts therapies to improve outcomes for military and veteran populations.

Creative Forces: Healing the Invisible Wounds of War was originally organized by the National Endowment for the Arts in partnership with the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts and the National Museum of Health and Medicine, a division of the Defense Health Agency Research and Development Directorate. The exhibit was developed at the request of former Second Lady Karen Pence to commemorate Creative Arts Therapies Week 2020.

Explore veteran artwork and perspectives, as well as related research, on how creative arts therapies can provide a pathway to healing from wartime trauma.

Join us on Thursday, November 21st, at 1:00 p.m. ET for an in-depth webinar presented by Creative Forces®. This session will spotlight the unique partnerships between community arts organizations, Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) and Department of Defense (DoD) clinics, and national networking organizations, illustrating how these collaborations can enhance an organization’s ability to create meaningful impact for both military-connected individuals and the broader communities they serve.

Creative Forces® uses two logic models to guide its Community Engagement program. The National Logic Model Summary helps guide the overall national program and ensures its aims, goals, and implementation strategies are clear.