In 2019, Mary Whyte's groundbreaking traveling exhibition of 50 watercolors called We the People: Portraits of Veterans in America opened to the public in Charleston, South Carolina. In the first six weeks alone over 22,000 people viewed the collection. The response, especially from veterans, confirmed Whyte's belief in art's extraordinary power to communicate and connect.
What began as fifty portraits turned into a national mission giving veterans a means of finding whole health through art and self-expression.
If you have a heart for veterans, art and teaching,
Contact us to volunteer
Watch Christine demonstrate her technique for veteran students.
Tony shares what he gains from teaching Veterans through Art of Valor and Creative Salute.
Pictured L to R are: Mrs. Jean Langbein, Regent of Erasmus Perry Chapter DAR; Ms. Karen Norman, artist; and Mrs. Ruth Anne McCormick, Chapter Treasurer.
THE NATIONAL SOCIETY DAUGHTERS OF THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION RECOGNIZED KAREN NORMAN WITH THE WOMEN IN AMERICAN HISTORY AWARD AND THE WOMEN IN THE ARTS AWARD FOR HER CONTRIBUTIONS TO PATRIOT ART FOUNDATION.
Over the last three years, Karen has contributed her time, talent, and energy to Veterans through our Art of Valor and Brushes with Valor programs. She was nominated in recognition of her work with Veterans at the Miami VA Hospital, as well as her instruction at Art of Valor at the National United States Army Museum in partnership with the National Army Foundation. This honor is approved at the local, state, and national levels.
"I just wanted to share some good news. I met with a Veteran today who attended yesterday's art class. That class really impacted that Veteran. They shared that they left class feeling more hopeful about their mental health recovery. I think because of this class, too, this individual is becoming more comfortable in groups and learning how to take supported risks. This Veteran has been battling with severe depression and PTSD. So, I just wanted to pass that along and say thank you again for providing this service. Art saves lives."
From Mike Henry, artist, Veteran, and PAF art facilitator
Patriot Art Foundation
P.O. Box 620
Mt Pleasant, SC 29465
For more information about online classes or if your company is interested in becoming a PAF partner, please contact Patriot Art Foundation:
© 2026 Patriot Art Foundation | Non-Profit. All Rights Reserved.
Read how veteran and artist Gladys Lawrence shares her experience with Mary Whyte’s Watercolor Bootcamp and how art has impacted her life. The Mailchimp piece centers on Gladys Lawrence, her participation in the Patriot Art Foundation’s Watercolor Bootcamp, and the emotional and creative impact of art in her life.
