welcome
veterans art gallery
Where Art Heals
Step into a transformative art space founded by James Agesen, where veterans and first responders use the arts to find peace, purpose, and personal expression.
welcome
veterans art gallery
Where Art Heals
Step into a transformative art space founded by James Agesen, where veterans and first responders use the arts to find peace, purpose, and personal expression.
Meet The Artist
James Agesen
Award-winning artist and Canadian Forces & First Responder veteran James Agesen has been creating art since his recovery journey began. With international exhibitions and media features under his belt, James launched this initiative to give others the same life-changing opportunity.
"Those who serve carry unseen wounds. Through art, we help them speak, heal, and thrive."
= James Agesen
mission and vision
Mission
To provide a safe, inclusive, and inspiring space where veterans, military personnel, first responders and the public can explore and experience the therapeutic power of the arts.
Vision
A world where every Canadian who serves, or has served, can access healing, connection and recognition through the arts and where the public is invited to engage, support and grow through creativity.
WHAT WE OFFER
physical gallery & featured artists
Support featured artists through purchases of original works, signed prints and commissioned pieces, all from veterans, first responders and direct family members.
Veteran & First Responder Exhibitions
Showcasing original works from artists with lived experience in service from painting and poetry, to sculpture and national mixed media exhibitions.
Healing-Focused Art Programs
Trauma-informed programs that promote resilience, self-expression and emotional healing through creativity and peer support.
community classes
Accessible painting and drawing classes open to the public for families, children and caregivers.
workshops
"Everyone Can Create. Everyone Can Support."
Workshops designed and curated specifically for veterans and first responders working through trauma in a safe and supportive space. A retreat shared peer experience. 2-3 day overnight getaway
special events
"Where Art Meets Honour — And Community Comes Together."
Our special events blend art, remembrance, and community. From immersive exhibitions to waterfront celebrations, each event offers a powerful way to connect, heal, and honour those who serve. Whether you're local or visiting Port Stanley, join us for meaningful, art-inspired experiences that make a difference and connect with our local business partners.
Memberships
Get involved! Members enjoy perks like discounted programs, early access to events, and invitations to exclusive gallery previews.
GALLERY
featured artists
"As the founder of Veterans’ Art Gallery Inc., I extend my sincere thanks for your support. Whether you've purchased original artwork or participated in our programs, classes and workshops, your contribution helps bring this vision to life. Your support not only sustains our gallery — it uplifts the veterans, first responders and their families who find healing and purpose through their creative expression. Thank you for being part of this journey."
Small Call to Action Headline
James Agesen - Founder
< Artist: Mary Fielder
Born in Quebec in 1973 to Maltese-German immigrant parents, Mary Fielder brings her powerful military legacy and artistic vision to life through deeply personalized works of art. A 20-year veteran of the Canadian Armed Forces, Mary served with distinction across multiple deployments, including Bosnia and CFS Alert, earning several commendations including the NATO Non-Article 5 Medal and the Canadian Peacekeeping Service Medal. Now based in Bowmanville, Ontario, she is Canada’s only visual artist specializing in custom military iconography. Her paintings immortalize the service journeys of CAF members, incorporating medals, badges, dog tags, and personal milestones into each piece. Mary's artwork has been featured in national military publications and was selected for the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee album in 2022. Her unique ability to blend honor, history, and healing has made her work a treasured part of homes, galleries, and veterans’ spaces across Canada. Explore more at armytoartist.ca
Artist: Samantha Skidmore >
A multidisciplinary artist based in London, Ontario, originally born in East London, South Africa. After immigrating to Canada as a child, she grew up in the prairies and has since lived and worked across Saskatchewan, Manitoba, and Ontario. Samantha’s creativity has shaped every aspect of her life—from her early experiments with design and building, to a career spanning roles in interior design, personal support work, medical administration, floral design, and optometry. Her artistic practice, once private, became public in 2024 with the launch of Solute Art Studio, where she creates expressive works using India ink on paper and acrylic on canvas. Deeply influenced by her daily experiences and her time as a Personal Support Worker, Samantha’s art reflects the emotional complexity of life, exploring both its struggles and quiet joys. Through her work, she hopes to offer viewers moments of comfort, strength, and self-discovery
—small but meaningful components in the larger solution of healing.
< Artist: Ashlee Tricka
(b. 1983, Niagara Falls, Ontario) is an internationally recognized impressionist oil painter, celebrated for her expressive brushwork that captures the depth of the human experience. Her work has been exhibited and collected across North America and Europe, with features in American Art Collector Southwest Art Magazine and several European publications. Ashlee trained at the Angel Academy of Art in Italy, Scottsdale Artists’ School (on scholarship), Memorial University, and the Art Students League of Denver under Ron Hicks, Kim English, and Quang Ho.
Now living in Medicine Hat, Alberta with her husband and three children, Ashlee is deeply connected to the military community as a CAF family member. For over a decade, she has created meaningful works for veterans and their families, with her paintings displayed on military bases and used to support memorial projects, including a bench in Nova Scotia. She also teaches at the Esplanade Arts and Heritage Centre and serves on the board of the Medicine Hat Autism Society.
healing through the arts initiative
Boosts Mental Health & Cognitive Function
Improves Communication for Trauma Survivors
Restores Purpose & Emotional Regulation
Builds Community Among Peers and the Public
"Why This Matters"
Your donation really matters, we are publically funded
According to studies featured in Your Brain on Art. creative expression directly influences the brain's healing pathways. Veterans and first responders engaging in visual arts, writing, and sculpture show reduced stress, improved mood, and deeper social connection.
When trauma is trapped, it isolates. But when expressed through paint, clay, or poetry, it transforms. Our workshops and exhibitions empower participants to find hope and community through creative action.
TESTIMONIALS
WHAT OTHERS ARE SAYING
"Brilliant Artist"
“James’ work immediately reminded me of Van Gogh — emotionally powerful, narratively rich, and consistently brilliant. I believe we’re witnessing the rise of an artistic genius whose work will be passionately collected.”
— Steve Tracy, Artist & Instructor, London, Ontario
"His pieces elicit Beauty and Hope"
“James’s work captures raw honesty with a spontaneous, almost childlike style that draws viewers into deeply human stories — of war, identity, and resilience. His paintings are powerful, unsettling, and profoundly moving.”
- Nicole London, Ontario
welcome
veterans art gallery
Where Art Heals
Step into a transformative art space founded by James Agesen, where veterans and first responders use the arts to find peace, purpose, and personal expression.
Meet The Artist
James Agesen
Award-winning artist and Canadian Forces & First Responder veteran James Agesen has been creating art since his recovery journey began. With international exhibitions and media features under his belt, James launched this initiative to give others the same life-changing opportunity.
"Those who serve carry unseen wounds. Through art, we help them speak, heal, and thrive."
- James Agesen
mission and vision
Mission
To provide a safe, inclusive, and inspiring space where veterans, military personnel, first responders and the public can explore and experience the therapeutic power of the arts.
Vision
A world where every Canadian who serves, or has served, can access healing, connection and recognition through the arts and where the public is invited to engage, support and grow through creativity.
WHAT WE OFFER
Veteran & First Responder Exhibitions
Showcasing original works from artists with lived experience in service — from painting and poetry to sculpture and mixed media
211 Main Street, Port Stanley Ontario
Healing-Focused Art Programs
Trauma-informed workshops that promote resilience, self-expression, and emotional healing through creativity.
Community Classes & Wellness Events
Accessible painting and drawing classes open to the public — with special programs for families, children, and caregivers
Online & Physical Gallery
Support featured artists through purchases of original works, signed prints, and commissioned pieces — all from veterans and first responders and direct family members.
Memberships & Volunteer Opportunities
Get involved! Members enjoy perks like discounted programs, early access to events, and invitations to exclusive gallery previews.
GALLERY
featured artists
"As the founder of Veterans’ Art Gallery Inc., I extend my sincere thanks for your support. Whether you've purchased original artwork or participated in our programs, classes and workshops, your contribution helps bring this vision to life. Your support not only sustains our gallery — it uplifts the veterans, first responders and their families who find healing and purpose through their creative expression. Thank you for being part of this journey."
Small Call to Action Headline
James Agesen - Founder
Artist: Mary Fielder
Born in Quebec in 1973 to Maltese-German immigrant parents, Mary Fielder brings her powerful military legacy and artistic vision to life through deeply personalized works of art. A 20-year veteran of the Canadian Armed Forces, Mary served with distinction across multiple deployments, including Bosnia and CFS Alert, earning several commendations including the NATO Non-Article 5 Medal and the Canadian Peacekeeping Service Medal. Now based in Bowmanville, Ontario, she is Canada’s only visual artist specializing in custom military iconography. Her paintings immortalize the service journeys of CAF members, incorporating medals, badges, dog tags, and personal milestones into each piece. Mary's artwork has been featured in national military publications and was selected for the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee album in 2022. Her unique ability to blend honor, history, and healing has made her work a treasured part of homes, galleries, and veterans’ spaces across Canada. Explore more at armytoartist.ca
Artist: Samantha Skidmore
A multidisciplinary artist based in London, Ontario, originally born in East London, South Africa. After immigrating to Canada as a child, she grew up in the prairies and has since lived and worked across Saskatchewan, Manitoba, and Ontario. Samantha’s creativity has shaped every aspect of her life—from her early experiments with design and building, to a career spanning roles in interior design, personal support work, medical administration, floral design, and optometry. Her artistic practice, once private, became public in 2024 with the launch of Solute Art Studio, where she creates expressive works using India ink on paper and acrylic on canvas. Deeply influenced by her daily experiences and her time as a Personal Support Worker, Samantha’s art reflects the emotional complexity of life, exploring both its struggles and quiet joys. Through her work, she hopes to offer viewers moments of comfort, strength, and self-discovery
—small but meaningful components in the larger solution of healing.
Artist: Ashlee Tricka
(b. 1983, Niagara Falls, Ontario) is an internationally recognized impressionist oil painter, celebrated for her expressive brushwork that captures the depth of the human experience. Her work has been exhibited and collected across North America and Europe, with features in American Art Collector Southwest Art Magazine and several European publications. Ashlee trained at the Angel Academy of Art in Italy, Scottsdale Artists’ School (on scholarship), Memorial University, and the Art Students League of Denver under Ron Hicks, Kim English, and Quang Ho.
Now living in Medicine Hat, Alberta with her husband and three children, Ashlee is deeply connected to the military community as a CAF family member. For over a decade, she has created meaningful works for veterans and their families, with her paintings displayed on military bases and used to support memorial projects, including a bench in Nova Scotia. She also teaches at the Esplanade Arts and Heritage Centre and serves on the board of the Medicine Hat Autism Society.
healing through the arts initiative
Boosts Mental Health & Cognitive Function
Improves Communication for Trauma Survivors
Restores Purpose & Emotional Regulation
Builds Community Among Peers and the Public
"Why This Matters"
Your donation really matters, we are publically funded
According to studies featured in Your Brain on Art. creative expression directly influences the brain's healing pathways. Veterans and first responders engaging in visual arts, writing, and sculpture show reduced stress, improved mood, and deeper social connection.
When trauma is trapped, it isolates. But when expressed through paint, clay, or poetry, it transforms. Our workshops and exhibitions empower participants to find hope and community through creative action.
TESTIMONIALS
WHAT OTHERS ARE SAYING
"Brilliant Artist"
“James’ work immediately reminded me of Van Gogh — emotionally powerful, narratively rich, and consistently brilliant. I believe we’re witnessing the rise of an artistic genius whose work will be passionately collected.”
— Steve Tracy, Artist & Instructor, London, Ontario
"His pieces elicit Beauty and Hope"
“James’s work captures raw honesty with a spontaneous, almost childlike style that draws viewers into deeply human stories — of war, identity, and resilience. His paintings are powerful, unsettling, and profoundly moving.”
- Nicole London, Ontario
Our Trusted Partners
211 Main Street, Port Stanley Ontario
Call 519.200.1616
Email: [email protected]
Site: www.veteransartgallery.org
Copyright - 2025 Veterans Art Gallery Inc . All rights reserved
welcome
veterans art gallery
Where Art Heals
Step into a transformative art space founded by James Agesen, where veterans and first responders use the arts to find peace, purpose, and personal expression.
WHAT WE OFFER
Veteran & First Responder Exhibitions
Showcasing original works from artists with lived experience in service — from painting and poetry to sculpture and mixed media
211 Main Street, Port Stanley Ontario
Healing-Focused Art Programs
Trauma-informed workshops that promote resilience, self-expression, and emotional healing through creativity.