Since art is healing therapy

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (KRQE) - The Albuquerque VA Medical Center is looking for Veterans willing to share their talents with other veterans here in New Mexico next month. From woodworking to singing on stage, anyone who's willing to try could climb the ranks to a national competition later this year.

Organizers say there is a lot more to the competition than you might think.

"The horrors of war and even the day-to-day peace time work that you do takes a toll" says VA therapist and Veteran Janet Escobedo. "Creative arts itself is healing."

For some it's a way to heal. For others it's simply a way to fill the time and share their talents.

The VA is looking for a new batch of Veterans to share their talents in the visual and performing arts. Winners at the local level head to regionals and some go all the way to the national competition.

VA Therapist Escobedo says you don't have to a professional artist to participate in the Creative Arts Festival.

Judging for visual arts participants will take place March 1st at the Raymond G. Murphy VA Medical Center. The performing arts competition will be March 4th. Applications must be submitted by February 25th.

Call the VA Medical Center at (505) 265-1711 for more information.