June, 2025 CAVARTS Spotlight Feature: Michael Woods
This month we’re featuring Michael, a Navy Veteran who served as a Photographer’s Mate aboard the USS Saipan (LHA-2). A lifelong creative, Michael has been playing guitar since he was 17 and continues to express himself through both music and photography.
These days, he especially enjoys capturing moments in nature and photographing his grandchildren. For Michael, CAVARTS represents camaraderie, connection, and a supportive space where “Vets get Vets.” His advice to fellow artists is simple: “You do You!” 🎸📷
Name:
Michael Woods
Branch of service:
Navy
About:
Served as Ship's Company on board USS Saipan, LHA-2 as Photographer -- (PH). I have been playing guitar since the age of 17 (I'm Much, MUCH older now). I still photograph a lot of Nature and my grandchildren!
Title of piece:
Morning Dove Nesting
Medium of piece:
Photography
Piece photo:
Meaning behind piece:
My Dogwood tree in my backyard is now home to 2 of the sweetest morning dove pairs. when the 1 momma bird sits over her babies, papa bird is getting food.
What inspires you to create art?:
Not "what" but "WHO" -- My Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Psalm 19:1 -- The heavens declare the glory of God, and the sky above proclaims his handiwork.
What part of your life has benefited the most from your creative pursuits?:
My music (I play guitar & drums). My other relationships with my wife and family.
Is it important for you to challenge yourself in your art? Tell us why or why not!:
Absolutely important. I try to push myself in my music playing as well as video and still photography because I look for camera angles / musical styles that as I try to mimic them I'm challenged to take it a step further.
What is your process or ritual to get your creativity flowing?:
Hugging my guitar -- Prayer -- studying other similar artists.
What does CAVARTS mean to you?:
A great outlet and camaraderie among other servicemembers and opportunities for networking and connecting with other vets because Vets get Vets :-)
Our monthly theme for May is Rooted, but Michael submitted this in June, when our theme was The Great Outdoors. Here’s what Michael had planned for the month:
BBQ-ing! spending time with my friends on their boat and of course -- The Beach!
What words of inspiration do you have for your fellow CAVARTists?:
You do You!
