Otero Veteran Arts Showcase Returns for Fourth Year at Alamogordo Artspace

Alamogordo, NM — Otero Arts is proud to present the fourth annual Otero Veteran Arts Showcase (OVAS) throughout the month of May at the Artspace Gallery. This year’s showcase honors the service and contributions of women veterans — both active duty and retired — with two powerful exhibitions and a full schedule of events.

The exhibitions include “Portraits of Military Women,” a collection of photographs by Kim Melton, alongside an exhibition of original artwork created by women veterans. The public is invited to the Opening Ceremony on Friday, May 1 at 5:00 p.m., followed immediately by a special performance.

At 6:30 p.m. on May 1, U.S. Army and Air Force veteran Pablo Jasso will present “4SUICIDES, Looking for a Place to Happen, Act III” — an interactive play exploring veteran experiences. The performance is free and open to the public. The play will be presented again on Friday, May 22 at the Artspace.

Throughout the month, the showcase will feature empowering workshops led by Jenny Pacanowski, a combat veteran, writer, performer, and founder of Women Veterans Empowered and Thriving (WVET). These evidence-based reintegration programs were designed by women veterans for women veterans and are open to participants at any stage of their military journey.

Workshop Schedule:

• Thursday, May 15 at 5:00 p.m. — WVET Empowerment Workshop for Women Veterans & Active Duty (pre-registration required)

• Friday, May 16 at 4:00 p.m. — WVET Empowerment Workshop for Civilians and Caretakers

• Saturday, May 17 at 11:30 a.m. — Brunch and “Empowerment Workshop: A Guide to Releasing the Story with Breath and Intention” (pre-registration required; civilians and veterans welcome)

The May 17 workshop will be followed by an Open Mic from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m., featuring civilian and veteran performers and speakers. Note: Performers must have attended the 11:30 a.m. brunch workshop.

To pre-register for any workshops, email Dr. Lori Arella at dloria@gmail.com.

The month-long celebration will conclude with a Drum Circle and Closing Ceremony on Saturday, May 30 at 4:00 p.m. All ages are welcome. Participants may bring their own drum or use instruments provided by Otero Arts. No experience is necessary.

The Artspace Gallery, located at 1118 Indiana Avenue and 12th Street in Alamogordo, will host the exhibitions from May 1 through May 31. Gallery hours are Thursday through Sunday, 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.

For more information, contact Otero Arts at oteroartsinc@gmail.com.

This year’s Otero Veteran Arts Showcase promises a meaningful month of art, performance, healing, and community as Alamogordo honors the strength and stories of women who have served.

Reported for 2nd Life Media Alamogordo Town News & KALH Radio

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