THE JOURNEY HOME

LAURA BOZEMAN

I wanted to capture the challenges of retiring. I felt overwhelmed and adrift after leaving a very regimented life where I rarely wore anything other than camouflage — reflected by the diagonal lines and chaotic blacks, browns, and greens.

The vertical lines signify my transition to life in Alaska with aurora borealis (northern lights) and my new focus to remain healthy, foster positive connections with family and friends, and enjoy my blessings. My life still has order, but it’s shifted towards the serene beauty of being in nature.

Each veteran’s journey home is unique. To truly thank someone for their service requires more than saying those simple words. It’s also concrete action, such as a willingness to listen and to understand.

ABOUT THE ARTIST

LAURA BOZEMAN

Anchorage, Alaska

U.S. Army Veteran

Laura was commissioned as an officer after completing Texas Christian University’s Army ROTC program in 1992. She served active duty for 27 years, being stationed all over the world, including Afghanistan for Operation Enduring Freedom. Now retired, she’s the Anchorage Peer Support Group (PSG) Leader with Wounded Warrior Project (WWP), helping veterans find peace post-service.

“I enjoy creating art because my anxiety is reduced, and I lose myself in the artistic process. Through WWP, I’ve taken several online art classes — pyrography (wood burning), digital photography, etc. — and I’m a member of the Art & Chat PSG where I share creations and complete art tutorials with other vets across the country. We’ve built a real sense of community.”