'It opens so many different doors': Local veterans use photography as therapy

 

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- Local veterans are channeling their emotions into art, capturing the beauty of the Milwaukee area and beyond. Their unique perspectives were on display at the Milwaukee VA Medical Center.

"It soothes some of the emotional periods of my life that I sheltered from before," said Chirstopher Bowens, a U.S. Army veteran. "Just putting it in my art alone exposes a lot of the emotions that I've been hiding within, and I can talk about it and be a little more comfortable about it."

Serving 11 years in the Army, Bowens joined the Veterans in Focus photography program two years ago. He says it has changed his life for the better.

"It kind of cracks the shell of who you are as a person," said Bowens. "It opens so many different doors and visions that you didn't see before, and you pull that in perspective and you share. Share with the world."

Bowens is one of 12 local veteran photographers in the VA's recreation therapy program featured in the exhibit, rediscovering the Milwaukee area through their lens.

"Each veteran can take their own personality and inject it into the art," said Erik Moeser, a U.S. Air Force veteran. "That's what photography is all about, capturing moments."

To these veterans, their pictures are more than just art. It’s become therapy and a way to express themselves. It allows them to share new experiences and find new perspectives together.

"It's fun," said Krysty Kalweit, a U.S. Air Force veteran. "It’s a lot of fun, and every time it's like a new adventure, whether it's different parks or anything."

Healing and surprising themselves along the way.

"Actually, to see it blown up, it's like oh my gosh, this is crazy," said Kalweit.