TRANSCENDENCE

MARK ELLIS

The inspiration for this piece is my sister, Tina. She’s also a veteran and I wanted to tell the story of her transformation. The female at the bottom is struggling with pain, despair, and guilt — water surrounds, drowning her under its weight. Through alternative therapies, her transformation begins… her eyes open and she loses herself. Finally, she’s shown as a soldier who has been released — she’s fully healed, smiling tears of relief and joy. The whole scene represents the current-self healing the past-self.

Every veteran is unique and we each have our own healing journey. My life has been saved as has many of the vets I know. I hope to spread awareness through my testimony, so more healing can begin.

ABOUT THE ARTIST

MARK ELLIS

San Diego, California

U.S. Army Veteran

Mark served seven years as an U.S. Army Infantryman with the 25th Infantry 1/27th “Wolfhounds” from 1996-2003. He enlisted because his mom was struggling as a single parent, and he wanted her to feel proud and set a good example for his older sister, Tina. It worked. She straightened out her life and soon joined the military too.

Mark did not initially notice or perhaps avoided his mental health challenges post-service. But after many years, the challenges began to mount and cause additional issues. His sister intervened by introducing him to Wounded Warrior Project (WWP). Today, Mark regularly attends many WWP activities, programs, and events.

The strong connection between Mark and his sister continues to grow as they heal and help others with their story.