Richard Isbell – Pathways: Art Heals a Veteran’s Journey
Veteran
Creative, Caring, Funny
Rich Isbell knows that art saved his life. A gulf war veteran, Rich struggled to fit in when returning to his civilian life. He felt isolated, depressed and detached from the world he had known prior to enlisting. In his journey to reconnect, Rich returned to the sketchpads that had provided him comfort during his youth. Rich learned new techniques and the freedom to express himself, he was able to reroute around the traumatic moments he once experienced and enjoy life again.
Richard is a 100% service-connected disabled veteran who found a way to rehabilitate himself through the use of the arts. It is a story of navigating obstacles and overcoming adversity in order to be able to support his family and mentor other veterans. Through his message, he inspires other veterans to find their voice; whether it be creating artwork, writing, or through theatre.
