Shade Projects will present the Stories of Their Sacrifices: PTSD, the photography of Christopher OShana and Scott Johnson in Bokeh Gallery at the monOrchid during PTSD Awareness month. This exhibition showcases two brilliant series of photography bringing light to the important topic of PTSD, the men and women it affects as well as the animals which help to heal. Bokeh gallery will showcase raw and emotional imagery captured by these two talented Veterans who photograph other Veterans diagnosed with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder before, during and after treatment, says Shade Projects Curator, Nicole Royse. She goes on to say, “I am honored to work with these me, bringing such powerful projects to the community while continuing to help bring awareness to such an important cause.”
PTSD refers to Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder which is a mental health condition triggered by a traumatic event and it has affected so many of our military men, women and their families. When asked about his work OShana said “It is my goal to raise awareness of PTSD for the Veterans who suffer from it, and to get those who are touched by this series to get involved in helping Veterans.” Both artists stress that “PTSD plays havoc on the warrior, whether they are having nightmares, anger issues, depression or other issues relating to it”.
Through these projects and incredible photographs we are able to see the animals which help to heal and most importantly give these amazing individuals the opportunity to share their struggle and battle with PTSD. These artists was able to capture amazing and emotionally charged moments, asking the viewer to take a moment and try understand what these veterans have gone through. OShana spoke extensively with each subject, hearing their story and while trying capture an image that encompasses the sacrifice and suffering they endured. Johnson works extensively with Soldiers Best Friend following each teams journey through the program, documenting the bond establishEd between the Veteran and their new best friend. Through his continued work with SBF, Johnson is able to give back to his fellow Veteran with a meaningful photograph that can be cherished for years to come.
OShana is a retired Navy Veteran who served 20 years. He is currently pursuing his AAS in Digital Photography from Phoenix College. Boats has received numerous awards for his photography including the Maricopa County Community College District Artist of Promise winner in 2011 and placed in the 2012 Western Eye Photography Competition at Phoenix College and in 2013 granted workspace at the monOrchid Gallery downtown Phoenix, AZ.
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