The Gazebo Gazette
GULFPORT (GG) — In honor of Veterans Day, Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College’s Harrison County Campus Fine Arts Gallery proudly presents “Salute to Veterans: Creative Arts Showcase,” featuring artwork created by community veterans. The exhibit celebrates both artistic talent and the healing power of creative expression, showcasing works by veterans who were introduced to art through local recreational therapy programs.
The show highlights participants from the Biloxi VA’s recent Creative Arts Competition, which includes a variety of visual arts categories ranging from oil painting to leatherwork. For these artists, creativity serves as both a means of self-expression and a pathway to healing.
Among the featured artists is Army veteran Gerald Alan Bryant, who credits art as a vital coping mechanism in his journey with PTSD.
“Through art, I have been able to effectively navigate life’s challenges and tribulations,” Bryant said. “Honestly, without art, I would be uncertain about my circumstances today. It has undoubtedly kept me grounded.”
Army veteran Lonnie Hodge echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of art therapy for those struggling to express their emotions.
“The most healing thing many of us ever experienced at the VA is the creative expressions groups that cater to those of us with few ways to articulate our issues,” Hodge said. “Among the people in our group classes, there were no differences between us. There was no talk of politics or religion, just expressions of joy and healing through music, poetry, and art.”
Hodge added that the values being among those “who give a standing ovation to recognize others who have poured their hurts and triumphs out on canvas.”
The exhibit is part of the MGCCC Harrison County Campus Veterans Day event on November 11, beginning with a ceremony in the campus courtyard beginning at 12:20 p.m., followed by a reception in the Fine Arts Building.
Salute to Veterans: Creative Arts Showcase is free and open to the public, running November 3–December 5, 2025. The gallery is in the Fine Arts Building (Building D) on the Harrison County Campus, 2226 Switzer Road, Gulfport. Gallery hours are Monday through Friday, 8 a.m.–3 p.m.
For more information, contact Cecily Cummings at Cecily.Cummings@mgccc.edu or 228-897-3909.
