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During the month of November, Hearth is offering free art therapy classes for veterans and hosting an art therapy luncheon at Birdfoot. Although these workshops are being offered at no-cost, pre-registration for classes and attendance at the luncheon is required. Please read through the following information, the registration form is at the bottom - Registration is first come first serve. The purpose of this event is to introduce local veterans to an innovative approach to mental health through the therapeutic use of art. In a community known for its vibrant arts culture, veterans have access to local studios and workshops such as High Country Ceramics, Hearth Glass & Gallery, and the Penland School of Crafts, all of which offer valuable opportunities for creative expression. Art therapy has been shown to have significant mental health benefits, particularly for veterans coping with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and other service-related challenges. Studies indicate that engaging in creative activities can help reduce anxiety, depression, and emotional distress, offering a safe space for veterans to process their experiences. With veteran suicide rates averaging 17 per day in the United States, finding alternative, non-invasive methods to support mental health is crucial. Creative outlets like art provide a calming, focused environment where veterans can redirect their energy and attention, potentially lowering the risk of harmful thoughts and actions. This event aims to foster a sense of community, promote healing, and offer a meaningful tool for veterans to take charge of their mental well-being.
Over the course of the month, Veteran will have the chance to attend a 30-minute "Make Your Own" session and craft a pint glass of their choice, selecting colors that resonate with them. Hearth Glass staff will then sandblast the veterans' respective Branch Insignia or Logo onto each glass prior to pick up.
Classes will only be offered on the following dates:
Oct 31st/Nov 1st Classes
Nov 7th/8th Classes
Nov 21st/22nd Classes
Nov 29: Veterans Appreciation Day (Cup Pickup, Food, Speakers, etc.) @ Birdfoot 1pm-4pm
On Nov 29th, 2025 from 1-4pm: veterans will pick up their custom-made glasses from Birdfoot Taproom at 10 Orchard Dr, Burnsville, NC 28714 and attend a luncheon dedicated to art and therapy.
The event will feature:
-Free food for veterans
-Interactive art displays by local artists
-Talks and demonstrations from renowned national and local veteran artists, including Geoffrey Bowton (Veteran and Glass Art resident at Penland School of Crafts) and Robert Mowry
-Guest speakers, including local therapists specializing in PTSD treatment through alternative therapies from Widening Circles NC (https://wideningcirclesnc.com) like art therapy and ketamine-assisted therapy,
-Hot Shop glassblowing demos at Hearth Glass & Gallery Open roundtable sessions, allowing veterans to engage directly with artists and therapists in one-on-one or group settings, fostering healing and connection in a relaxed, supportive atmosphere.
This event seeks to provide veterans with an opportunity to explore healing through creative expression while also building community support and engagement.
Event registration can be completed by following this link (https://forms.gle/FHiYrtVUBMab5Pxy8) or signing up in person at Hearth during business hours, Tuesday-Saturday 10am-5pm!
Sponsored by Toe River Arts.
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Event Venue & Nearby Stays
410 W Main St, Burnsville, NC 28714-2833, United States, Burnsville, NC, United States, North Carolina 28714
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