Alternative Therapies Through Arts
Service Members
Programs and services for service members, first responders, and their families.
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“This is mental health and healing
– and art is the avenue.”
A "Force for Art" Since 2014
FACT: Every 46 minutes there will be one veteran suicide.
The Veterans Art Center Tampa Bay provides alternative therapies through the arts for our military, veterans, first responders, and their families with a focus on mental health, healing, and suicide prevention.
We strive to create memories and laughter, sustainable relationships, and healing through the center where we can unify our communities through arts.
Learn More About Us
Our Programs
Our programs are designed to help support the mental health and healing of our community through art.
Connect with Us
Learn about our founder, board of trustees, and how to contact us or stay in the know.
Support Us
Learn how you can become a part of our healing community and how you can make a difference.
2024 in Pictures
Some of our highlights of 2024. Download the .pdf file.
Photos with the Wall
Gold Star Tribute Wall
Presented at Bert’s Barracuda Harley-Davidson
Clearwater, FL – November 1, 2025
The Veterans Art Center Tampa Bay proudly presented the Gold Star Tribute Wall at Bert’s Barracuda Harley-Davidson in Clearwater, Florida—a powerful and immersive memorial honoring the families of fallen service members.
Centered around the themes of Healing, Remember, and Honor, the event offered a meaningful space for reflection and connection, promoting mental health awareness and suicide prevention through the arts. The Tribute Wall served not only as a solemn remembrance but also as a catalyst for emotional healing, community engagement, and creative expression.
The installation aligns with the Center’s mission to provide alternative avenues for wellness through visual arts and storytelling. Attendees included veterans, families, and community members united in shared remembrance and hope.
Distinguished guests featured:
• LTG (Ret.) Michael Flynn, Keynote Speaker
• MG Hartsell, Florida Department of Veterans’ Affairs
• Alyse Zwick, Fox News 13
• Alongside numerous regional leaders, advocates, and supporters
The Gold Star Tribute Wall continues to travel across Florida, bringing its message of resilience and remembrance to communities statewide.
Event Sponsors
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The Role of Art in Suicide Prevention: Insights from Mack Macksam
Xraised provides viewers with valuable insights into the latest trends and triumphs of entrepreneurship and gives voice to founders driving innovation across the globe.
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Support the VACTB
Show your VACTB pride and support our veterans with a teeshirt designed by veterans. With each teeshirt sold - 20% of each sale goes directly to the VACTB to help support veteran programs.
So show your VACTB pride and get your tees today.
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103-year-old Bay Area Buffalo Soldier honored with self portrait
The Brief Veterans Art Center Tampa Bay unveiled a portrait of Roy Caldwood, a Buffalo Soldier who served in World War II. Maj. (ret) Mack Macksam said he wanted to create something special for Caldwood when he met him at the Army Ball. Roy Caldwood said the portrait means a lot to him, his family and generation.
VACTB QUICK FACTS
2560+ Alternative Programs Served
5 Prevented Suicides
23000+ Children's Community Outreach
3 Contracted Art Exhibits
21 Commissioned Art Presentations
"This experience provided a mental safe haven and I am thankful for the program and the instructor."
Upcoming Events
Have an Event with Us
If you or your organization wants to sponsor or create an event with us, let us know. Just email us with your details.
