‘It ended 35 years of nightmares,’ how art is transforming vets in our community [Video]

OMAHA, Neb. (KMTV) — Writer Thomas Merton once said, “Art enables us to find ourselves and lose ourselves at the same time.”

It’s something that rings true for veterans in Nebraska and Iowa who have found their passion for art, while getting the sense of camaraderie they once had in the military.

I introduce you to the New Century Art Guild in this week’s Mission: Service.

BROADCAST TRANSCRIPT

“I’m always looking for that shot, that photograph.”

Veteran Albert Rhea has always had a passion for art.

“I have 12 bird feeders on one side of the house,” he said while showing me a few of the bird photos he has taken. “I have 15 different cardinal shots so I’m going to have a show of just cardinals.”

Not just photography, though, he’s also a professional sculptor.

“I have a sculpture placed in Sioux Falls, Ames, West Des Moines, and Liberty, Missouri.”

Recently Rhea was introduced to a group of veterans who share a similar …