The Genesis of AVAFEST: A Beacon of Hope Through Art

In the face of harrowing statistics from the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs, which reports an estimated 20 veteran suicides daily, the need for intervention becomes paramount. Veterans are 50% more likely to take their own lives compared to non-veterans, with PTSD being a significant contributor to this heightened risk.

Enter Glenn Towery, a veteran who intimately understands the despair that drives many of his peers towards this tragic end. Towery, the creator of the Veterans Suicide Prevention Channel, found solace and a sense of purpose in art. For him, art wasn't just a hobby; it was a lifeline. "Art is a form of meditation. It’s a form of release," he asserts. From painting clocks and portraits to composing music and producing films like “Starfunk and the Astral Pioneers,” Towery's artistic endeavors became his sanctuary.

His involvement with The University of Texas at Austin Warrior Chorus further solidified his belief in the therapeutic power of art and literature. The Warrior Chorus, sponsored by the National Endowment for the Humanities, delves into classical literature, drawing parallels between ancient Greek tales and contemporary American experiences. Towery's reflections on characters like Ajax, who grappled with his own internal battles, resonate with the struggles faced by modern veterans.

Driven by a personal mission to find wholeness and to honor the commitment he made to his country, Towery envisioned a platform where art could serve as a beacon of hope for others like him. Thus, on January 9th, 2017, in Austin, Texas, the seeds for AVAFEST were sown. The Veterans Suicide Prevention Channel announced the inception of the Austin Veteran Arts Festival (AVAFEST), scheduled from October 18 to November 17, 2019. This festival, dedicated to veterans and their families, aimed to spotlight alternative healing methods through art.

Spanning five of Austin's prominent museums and cultural centers, AVAFEST showcased a myriad of artistic expressions, from visual and performance art to music. The festival's rich tapestry included concerts, poetry slams, culinary demonstrations, and even a car and motorcycle show. At its core, AVAFEST was Glenn Towery's brainchild, a testament to his belief in art's transformative power. "Art is a healing element...It is my hope that we create an art festival for veterans that changes their lives forever," Towery remarked.

The festival's impact was profound, garnering attention from Austin's commissions and even Mayor Steve Adler. Today, AVAFEST stands as a testament to the healing potential of art, a beacon of hope for veterans navigating the tumultuous waters of post-war life.

For more information, visit AVAFest.org and learn about the Veterans Suicide Prevention Channel at vspchannel.vet.