How do you explain something, when your words escape how you feel? How do you give a voice to those who feel voiceless? The battles of dealing with PTSD can be a difficult one to explain. The often misconception that a person dealing with PTSD is “crazy” is, in itself, a crazy statement. I wanted to visualize what it feels like inside of the mind of a veteran when they’re struggling with their own PTSD. I asked other veterans what they saw when they closed their eyes, and to visualize what it would look like. Everyone was describing things that shared some of the same characteristics within their feelings. Some people wanted to create their own images with the form of art they felt more comfortable with, which is the hand drawings that you see. I used what they said, as well as my own experiences as a guide in the creation of what you see.
“This series of images was created to help heal the mind and soul, while showing the world what it can be like when you’re struggling with PTSD; all the while using photography as a form of therapy through visual exploration.”
In celebration of The Staatliches Bauhaus (a German art school operational from 1919 to 1933 that combined crafts and the fine arts) 100 year anniversary.
The sights and sounds of Route 66, in Arizona, along the towns of Seligman, AZ to Kingman AZ.
Ansel Adams is a role model of mine, and I love his National parks images. Seeing the natural beauty firsthand is breathtaking beyond what any words could even begin to remotely describe.
Sunrise in Zabriskie Point (36°25'14.9"N 116°48'36.6"W), CA is a sight to behold. The trip through Death Valley to get to there is not for the faint of heart, but it is worth it for anyone who enjoys beautiful mountains and landscapes filled with different colors.
Driving from Los Angeles, CA to Syracuse, NY is not easy, and a very long drive. Along the way, I created a series of images of National Cemeteries between locations, as well as Arlington National Cemetery. As an Army veteran, seeing those who came before me, paying my respects is the least I can do, and allowing me to take photos for therapeutic purpose, and my brothers and sisters helping me in that process was and is an amazing experience.
People are often just going through the motions in life, living from one day to the next. the black and white images before you show the mundane experience we often feel in yourself.
