TAMPA, Fla. — Saturday, veterans and civilians came together for an inspirational performance to better understand one another.

What You Need To Know

  • Veteran Civilian Arts Ensemble put on a showcase at the Straz Center's TECO Theatre on Saturday

  • The ensemble was designed to create deeper understanding between civilians and veterans

  • The event is funded by the National Endowment for the Arts’ Creative Forces initiative, Mid-America Arts Alliance, State of Florida Division of Arts and Culture, BayCare, DeBartolo Family Foundation, Raymond James Valor Network and Real-Time Labor Guide

The Veteran Civilian Arts Ensemble put on ‘Finding One, Seeing Me Seeing You’ at the Straz Center’s TECO Theatre.

U.S. Air Force Veteran Bernie Dunn has participated in the showcase three years in a row, and is always excited about the performance.

“I came back because I enjoy the relationships and I enjoy the creative process and taking our stories and putting it into a showcase that creates a bridge of communication,” Dunn said.

For years, Dunn has used her creativity to heal. She started painting to deal with past trauma from the military and during the COVID-19 pandemic. She said painting, writing poems and dancing have really helped her find her purpose.

The Veteran Civilian Arts Ensemble is also giving her the courage to try new things and make new friendships. Dunn said it helps her realize she’s not alone.

“It reminds me every day to live my life in the here and now and to connect and to help others,” Dunn said.

Dunn said when she is painting, she tries to focus on the bright colors. That’s what makes her the happiest. She wants to be a health and life coach so that she can help others find their happiness too.