9 November 2018 – 3 February 2019

From War was a unique and collaborative exhibition that brought together selected works from the permanent art collections of ANVAM and Parliament House, Canberra.

From War conveyed compelling stories from the lives of more than twenty veteran artists. The exhibition considers the way military service and war have impacted the lives of the exhibiting artists and their families, demonstrating the way art can positively transform lives.

For many veteran artists making art is both an expression of personal creativity and a way of ‘making meaning’. Veteran artistic practices can draw upon – and extend beyond – the individual’s experience of military service. For some, art is a lifeline and a life force; a way to tell stories and ask important questions about themselves and their place today in Australian society.

Using a diverse range of disciplines including photography, painting, sculpture, drawing, textiles, and poetry, the artists featured in the exhibition reflect on their personal questions and process sharing unique stories of their lived experiences of military service that continue to unfold today.

Curator: Kelly Squires

Director & Mentor: Tanja Johnston