About - the veterans art gallery inc.
WHere art heals
Promoting Recovery Through the Arts
Meet The Veterans Art Initiative
Nestled in the heart of Port Stanley, Veterans’ Art Gallery Inc. is a vibrant, healing-focused art space where creativity meets community and transformation begins. Founded by veteran artist James Agesen, the gallery is dedicated to showcasing the powerful works of Canadian veterans, military personnel, and first responders — individuals who turn their experiences into extraordinary expressions of resilience. More than just a gallery, we offer trauma-informed art programs, inclusive workshops, and hands-on classes designed to foster healing, connection, and purpose through the arts. Whether you're a veteran seeking recovery, a family looking to bond through creativity, or a supporter of local talent, you'll find value, inspiration, and belonging here. Members gain access to exclusive events, exhibitions, and discounts, while all participants leave with more than just art — they leave with renewed strength and a deeper sense of self.
MEET JAMES - FOUNDER
A veteran, first responder, painter, and passionate mental health advocate, James Agesen founded the Veterans’ Art Gallery in 2021 after discovering firsthand how art could support healing from service-related trauma. His vision was to create a safe space that didn’t just display art — but transformed lives. With support from the Royal Canadian Legion, Fanshawe College, and the Veterans Wellness Alliance, James continues to lead the gallery as a champion of hope and creative recovery.
Art for Purchase
featured works of james Agesen
BIO
James paintings are a reflection and expression of, personal turmoil related to past interactions and experiences. He hopes that each of his paintings tells/shows a story that evokes emotion in his audience. James continues his education as a student of the accomplished London Ontario ,
Artist "Steve Tracy" and is presently enrolled in a accredited art therapy program. His community service work includes starting the Veterans Art Initiative "Recovery Through The Arts" for Emergency Workers and Military Personnel in the city of London Ontario Canada James Agesen's educational level is University Degrees. His life was spent in the Military and Policing. James has always welcomes the opportunity to do freelance and commission work.
PORTFOLIO OF OUR ARTISTS
Professional Consignment Work
Discover a powerful collection of original artwork created by Canadian veterans, first responders, and service-connected artists. Each piece tells a story of resilience, reflection, and personal transformation. Available for purchase or consignment, these works not only support the artists directly but also contribute to the mission of healing through art. Explore the portfolio and own a piece of something truly meaningful.
Artist: James Agesen >
Gallery Artists
Work for Purchase Or Consignment
Artist: Mark Rusciolelli
Is a Canadian firefighter, peer support ambassador, and emerging artist whose work explores healing, faith, and resilience. Through acrylic, digital, and symbolic media, he transforms personal experiences with PTSD and addiction into powerful expressions of hope.
Rooted in Christian imagery and emotional honesty, his art invites reflection and connection. Mark shares his journey through the TrueColours YouTube channel and podcast, using his story to inspire healing and purpose in others.
< Artist: Steve Tracy
Steve Tracy is an Emmy Award–winning American-born artist based in London, Ontario. Known for his vibrant Canadian landscapes and high-energy “Extreme Skiers” series, his work blends impressionism and abstraction with bold color. A graduate of the School of Visual Arts in New York, Tracy began his career as a scenic artist in film and TV, earning an Emmy in 1991. Since relocating to Canada in 2008, he has become an active part of the local arts community, with his work featured in galleries across North America and commissioned by major brands like Apple and Cirque du Soleil. www.stevetracyart.com
< Artist: Ralph Jacob Tufts
Jacob Tufts is a Canadian artist, consultant, and mentor based in London, Ontario. His work is deeply rooted in the belief that reconnecting with our creative and imaginative sides can transform our well-being, leading to happier and healthier lives. Through his practice, Jacob explores the healing power of the arts, aiming to inspire others to find solace and strength in creative expression. Jacob's commitment to service and resilience is mirrored in his family. Six of his children are pursuing careers as first responders, including roles in firefighting and the military. One child is a nurse in mental health and his other daughter serves as a Second Lieutenant in the Canadian Armed Forces Infantry.
This dedication to service and healing profoundly influences Jacob's artistic journey, reinforcing his mission to use art as a means of connection, reflection, and restoration.
Through his website, rjtufts.com, Jacob offers insights into his artistic philosophy, custom projects, and immersive retreats, all designed to harness the transformative power of creativity.
< Artist: Daniel Roberts
Daniel Roberts grew up in Newfoundland and moved to Whitby, Ontario in 2004. He joined the Canadian Armed Forces in 2008, served in Valcartier, and was deployed to Afghanistan in 2009. Like many who’ve served, Daniel returned home carrying the invisible wounds of war. In 2024, he discovered art as a new path to healing — a powerful outlet for processing trauma and reclaiming identity. With no formal training, his work is quickly gaining attention for its emotional honesty and depth. Through painting, Daniel continues to transform his experiences into something meaningful, using creativity as a tool for recovery, reflection, and resilience.
Our Trusted Partners
Location: 211 Main Street, Port Stanley Ontario
Call: 519.200.1616
Email: veteransartgallery.org
Site: www.veterartsartgallery.org
Copyright Veterans Art Gallery Incorporated 2025. All rights reserved
About - the veterans art gallery inc.
WHere art heals
Promoting Recovery Through the Arts
Meet The Veterans Art Initiative
Nestled in the heart of Port Stanley, Veterans’ Art Gallery Inc. is a vibrant, healing-focused art space where creativity meets community and transformation begins. Founded by veteran artist James Agesen, the gallery is dedicated to showcasing the powerful works of Canadian veterans, military personnel, and first responders — individuals who turn their experiences into extraordinary expressions of resilience. More than just a gallery, we offer trauma-informed art programs, inclusive workshops, and hands-on classes designed to foster healing, connection, and purpose through the arts. Whether you're a veteran seeking recovery, a family looking to bond through creativity, or a supporter of local talent, you'll find value, inspiration, and belonging here. Members gain access to exclusive events, exhibitions, and discounts, while all participants leave with more than just art — they leave with renewed strength and a deeper sense of self.
MEET JAMES - FOUNDER
A veteran, first responder, painter, and passionate mental health advocate, James Agesen founded the Veterans’ Art Gallery in 2021 after discovering firsthand how art could support healing from service-related trauma. His vision was to create a safe space that didn’t just display art — but transformed lives. With support from the Royal Canadian Legion, Fanshawe College, and the Veterans Wellness Alliance, James continues to lead the gallery as a champion of hope and creative recovery.
Art for Purchase
featured works of james Agesen
BIO
James paintings are a reflection of, and expression of, personal turmoil related to past interactions and experiences. He hopes that each of his paintings tells/shows a story that evokes emotion in his audience. James continues his education as a student of the accomplished London Ontario , Artist "Steve Tracy" and is presently enrolled in a accredited art therapy program. His community service work includes starting the Veterans Art Initiative "Recovery Through The Arts" for Emergency Workers and Military Personnel in the city of London Ontario Canada James Agesen's educational level is University Degrees. His life was spent in the Military and Policing. James has always welcomes the opportunity to do freelance and commission work.
PORTFOLIO OF OUR ARTISTS
Professional Consignment Work
Discover a powerful collection of original artwork created by Canadian veterans, first responders, and service-connected artists. Each piece tells a story of resilience, reflection, and personal transformation. Available for purchase or consignment, these works not only support the artists directly but also contribute to the mission of healing through art. Explore the portfolio and own a piece of something truly meaningful.
Artist: James Agesen >
Gallery Artists
Work for Purchase Or Consignment
< Artist:
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< Artist: Steve Tracy
< Artist: Ralph Jacob Tufts
< Artist: Daniel Roberts
Daniel Roberts grew up in Newfoundland and moved to Whitby, Ontario in 2004. He joined the Canadian Armed Forces in 2008, served in Valcartier, and was deployed to Afghanistan in 2009. Like many who’ve served, Daniel returned home carrying the invisible wounds of war. In 2024, he discovered art as a new path to healing — a powerful outlet for processing trauma and reclaiming identity. With no formal training, his work is quickly gaining attention for its emotional honesty and depth. Through painting, Daniel continues to transform his experiences into something meaningful, using creativity as a tool for recovery, reflection, and resilience.