LOCATION: Gillespie Gallery, Art and Design Building, George Mason University Fairfax Campus

As You Were is a powerful, multidisciplinary exhibition featuring the artwork of 20+ military-connected artists who are veterans, family members, and caregivers. This exhibition tells the story of transformation—of warriors who have put down the weapons they once carried and picked up new tools: paintbrushes, carving knives, cameras, and pens. Through these and other tools, they navigate life after service, process trauma, and build bridges back to themselves, their families, and society. The creative act of self-expression becomes a form of survival. This work does not glorify war—it honors the resilience of those who have lived through it and the strength it takes to heal afterwards. Through painting, sculpture, installation, poetry, and multimedia, these veteran artists offer us a deeply personal view of post-service life, mental health, memory, and the enduring human need for connection. The inclusion of spouses and dependents expands this perspective, recognizing the effects of military service ripple through entire families and generations. Their art reveals the quiet strength, compassion, and struggle that exists beyond the battlefield—within the home, the heart, and the healing process.

 This exhibition is curated by Captain (Ret.) Moira McGuire, and is part of Veteran Artists: A Trilogy of Exhibitions presented by Mason Exhibitions during 2026.