Art Helping OK Veterans Adjust To Civilian Life; Paintings To Be Showcased

Making the transition from the service to civilian life is not an easy task for all veterans.

But recently, a couple of veterans have tapped into their artistic sides to smooth the path.

The Bridge isn’t a traditional art gallery, is one of Tulsa's co-working spaces; but Dave Burlin works there, and he's turning vacant wall space into the Freedom Gallery.

He's organized several events this week to help veterans learn more about how to get started.

“My passion is veteran entrepreneurship, Burlin said. "Veterans that start businesses and grow businesses, inspire other veterans in their transition."

The gallery event will give two young veterans a chance to show their work.

Matthew Billings said he picked up painting after his last deployment.

"I'm usually working on five at a time," he said.

And Scott Taylor has an art and design business called ColorPop.

This art thing has helped the two veterans successfully walk the tightrope back to civilian life; and, hopefully, it'll inspire others.

The Freedom Gallery opening is Monday evening from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. inside The Bridge at 5272 South Lewis.

There are other events this week for veteran entrepreneurs; you can find more information here.