ORLANDO, Fla. — There is undeniable splendor in the transformation from blank canvas to colorful creation.

It’s more than just the result of Larry Johns’ pour painting practice. It’s what he sees before his very eyes happening with other vets, as he teaches a free class twice a month at the Lake Nona VA.

“Once they participate in art therapy, in pour painting, they change their whole perspective,” he said. “They can come in here kind of reluctant and leave with such a passion.”

Johns, a retired Marine Corps Master Sergeant, found that passion himself after 24 years of service. He stumbled upon it during the pandemic, and a period of extreme isolation.

“For myself personally, it was beneficial for my own mental health; Gave me that sense of peace and relaxation,” he said.

It was a feeling he did not want to keep for himself. And though the licensed clinical therapist had no formal training in art therapy, he knew he could light a spark, relating to other veterans in a real and palatable way.

Eventually, he began teaching the creative class in the domiciliary, where veterans work through weighty issues, from substance abuse to mental health concerns.

“When you’ve been struggling with homelessness, depression, anxiety, substance abuse and felt as though you haven’t created anything in life in a long time, you do something like this here. It’s a sense of pride,” he explained. “They realize I still have creativity in me, some things I can do … much more than putting paint on a canvas.”

For those who found such pride in service, like the years Albert “Al” Schroeder spent in the service, supporting a program such as this — which supports other veterans — is vital.

“Having served in combat, I know some of the feelings these soldiers are getting coming back: depression, loss of hope. And I felt that we could help,” he said.

It’s why his Military Officers Association of America (MOAA) Central Florida Chapter decided to double down on art therapy. Schroeder, who sits on its board, reached out to the Orlando Shakes to showcase the veterans’ artwork, so artists could sell their creations as well.

The acting group agreed to just that, highlighting the art during an upcoming performance — their last show of Henry the 6th, on Jan. 21, 2024.

It’s something that’s encouraging to Johns, as he continues to teach art to fellow veterans.

“Many of them need daily encouragement, motivation. And as a veteran, that’s my passion. I want to be a part of the process that helps veterans heal,” said Johns. “It’s about getting back on track and establishing a new connection with their families. That’s what our veterans want to do. And I think art therapy is what makes it happen.”