Empowering Vietnam War Veterans Through Art
A Global Initiative by the Gatsby Showcase FoundationAt the Gatsby Showcase Foundation, we firmly believe in the transformative power of art as a medium for healing, empowerment, and economic opportunity. This belief recently led us to Vietnam, where we had the honor of visiting Lang Viet Lacquers, a government-supported initiative in Ho Chi Minh City that employs Vietnam War veterans and civilians disabled by Agent Orange.
Lang Viet Lacquers provides a safe, empowering space for individuals whose lives were forever altered by the devastating effects of Agent Orange. This initiative is unique because it trains and employs these individuals in creating exquisite lacquer artwork, which is then sold to provide them with financial independence and a sense of purpose. All the artists at Lang Viet Lacquers have physical disabilities due to Agent Orange exposure, and the art produced by these individuals has become a symbol of resilience and recovery.
During our visit, we saw firsthand the extraordinary craftsmanship and determination of the artists. Each lacquer piece tells a powerful story of survival, healing, and hope, and it was deeply moving to witness the profound impact that this program has on their lives. The sales from these works go directly to the artists, providing them with an income, and contributing to the rehabilitation of villages still affected by the war’s long-lasting consequences.
Inspired by the success of Lang Viet Lacquers, the Gatsby Showcase Foundation is committed to expanding this model of empowerment to the U.S., particularly focusing on supporting disabled Vietnam War veterans and others affected by Agent Orange. We plan to open the program up to other disabled veterans and citizens who could benefit from it.
Expanding the Art Program to the U.S.
We are actively exploring opportunities to bring a similar program to the Washington, D.C., area, where disabled veterans and other impacted individuals will be able to create and sell their art as a means of rehabilitation, financial independence, and empowerment. While we are still in the early stages of discussions with authorities, our goal is to work with local veterans’ organizations, galleries, and art institutions to launch this initiative.
This program will provide disabled veterans a platform to express themselves through their art, creating not only a path to financial empowerment but also a way to heal from the trauma they’ve experienced. The art created will be a powerful tool for public awareness and education about the long-term effects of Agent Orange. Our mission is to build a community where veterans and survivors of Agent Orange can find healing, dignity, and purpose through their artwork.
Ongoing Support for Lang Viet Lacquers and Vietnam’s Veterans
In addition to supporting U.S. veterans, we are committed to continuing our partnership with Lang Viet Lacquers in Vietnam. This program serves as an example of how art can be a healing tool and provide economic opportunities for individuals affected by war. We are working closely with the leadership of Lang Viet Lacquers to ensure that their success continues, with plans to expand their reach and resources.
Collaborating with Local Organizations and Corporations
As we look to establish a similar program in the U.S., the Gatsby Showcase Foundation is actively seeking partnerships with local organizations, veteran groups, and corporations that align with our mission to empower marginalized communities. We aim to build a robust network of partners that can provide funding, mentorship, and resources to make this program successful.
We are also reaching out to potential corporate sponsors and government agencies that are interested in supporting veterans, especially those affected by Agent Orange. This initiative will bring awareness to the ongoing struggles of Vietnam veterans and their families, as well as other veterans and citizens with disabilities, and will provide them with the tools to succeed through artistic expression.
Expanding the Art Program to the U.S.
We are actively exploring opportunities to bring a similar program to the Washington, D.C., area, where disabled veterans and other impacted individuals will be able to create and sell their art as a means of rehabilitation, financial independence, and empowerment. While we are still in the early stages of discussions with authorities, our goal is to work with local veterans’ organizations, galleries, and art institutions to launch this initiative.
This program will provide disabled veterans a platform to express themselves through their art, creating not only a path to financial empowerment but also a way to heal from the trauma they’ve experienced. The art created will be a powerful tool for public awareness and education about the long-term effects of Agent Orange. Our mission is to build a community where veterans and survivors of Agent Orange can find healing, dignity, and purpose through their artwork.
Ongoing Support for Lang Viet Lacquers and Vietnam’s Veterans
In addition to supporting U.S. veterans, we are committed to continuing our partnership with Lang Viet Lacquers in Vietnam. This program serves as an example of how art can be a healing tool and provide economic opportunities for individuals affected by war. We are working closely with the leadership of Lang Viet Lacquers to ensure that their success continues, with plans to expand their reach and resources.
Collaborating with Local Organizations and Corporations
As we look to establish a similar program in the U.S., the Gatsby Showcase Foundation is actively seeking partnerships with local organizations, veteran groups, and corporations that align with our mission to empower marginalized communities. We aim to build a robust network of partners that can provide funding, mentorship, and resources to make this program successful.
We are also reaching out to potential corporate sponsors and government agencies that are interested in supporting veterans, especially those affected by Agent Orange. This initiative will bring awareness to the ongoing struggles of Vietnam veterans and their families, as well as other veterans and citizens with disabilities, and will provide them with the tools to succeed through artistic expression.
How You Can Help
We invite you to join us in this transformative initiative. Whether through donations, partnerships, or raising awareness, there are many ways you can make a difference in the lives of these heroes. Your support will help us create a lasting impact, not just for veterans in the U.S., but for survivors in Vietnam as well.
We are committed to continuing our work with Lang Viet Lacquers in Vietnam and bringing this empowering model to the U.S. Together, we can help restore hope and dignity to those who have sacrificed so much for their countries. By supporting this initiative, you are contributing to a global effort that is not only focused on healing but also on empowering individuals to create their own futures through art.