A new public art exhibit created by veterans, first responders, and staff from Warriors Heart is now open at Grunt Style headquarters in downtown San Antonio.
The mural, titled Service is a Lifestyle, and the accompanying Warriors Heart Gallery opened Memorial Day weekend and will remain on display through Veterans Day.
The exhibit features more than 60 original works of art, many of which include QR codes that link to audio recordings of the artists describing their experiences with service, trauma, and recovery.
The creators include individuals who have completed Warriors Heart’s 42-day inpatient treatment program, which focuses on addiction, PTSD, and co-occurring conditions.
“This collaborative mural and artwork are a public testament to healing, purpose, and the strength it takes to come home from the battles within,” said Christina Moreno, executive director of Warriors Heart Texas.
Art therapy is one component of the treatment program. According to the organization, participants work with clinical staff to use creative expression as a way to process emotions and support recovery.
The Warriors Heart Gallery invites the public to view the role of art in that process.
The mural’s design incorporates an American eagle, paintbrushes, and other studio tools. Creative art instructor Dan Monreal said the eagle was inspired by a painting done by a former client and reflects themes that resonated with participants.
Helmets at the bottom of the mural represent military service members, veterans, and first responders.
“The idea is that service is a lifestyle,” Monreal said. “The goal is for participants to carry what they’ve started here back home—to continue their sobriety, share their art, and stay connected to the process.”
An auction of the gallery’s artwork is planned later this year, with proceeds benefiting Irreverent Warriors and Warriors Heart programs.
More information is available at warriorsheart.com.
If you are a warrior who is struggling with addiction, PTSD and co-occurring issues, you can call Warriors Heart’s 24-hour hotline (866-955-4035).
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