MARSHALLTOWN, Iowa — The Iowa Veterans Home in Marshalltown has noticed that a number of their residents have become artists since they started living here. The veterans home operates a large craft room, with a number of ways for the residents to express themselves using art as the vehicle.
Recently, the veterans home held an art show, for residents to display their artistic talent.
“I just didn’t get a chance to do that a lot, raising my children growing up,” said Fern Bradley, who served in the military as a cook in Alabama, before raising her kids.
She has made a purse, made paintings with oil paint, and done several pieces of art.
“As far as actual artwork like this, never done it before,” said David Baker from Waterloo, who served on a submarine tender in the Navy.”
Living at IVH there is plenty of opportunity to paint, or work with ceramics. For Baker being able to do any art at all is an accomplishment.
“I’ve got a spinal cord injury, I’ve got fusion from C2 to T1 and I was considered almost a quadriplegic,” said Baker. “I have a lot of limitations with my hands.”
Baker has painted lighthouses, and sculpted several pieces, and is now working on a belt.
“The staff here are unbelievable. They do anything they can to help you,” said Baker. “Being able to do the arts and crafts, ceramics, painting, here, that makes this place more than just a nursing home. They give us inspiration.”
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