U.S. Navy Veteran Gabriel Fernandez, has carried a sketchpad with him through much of life’s journey—from drawing superheroes as a child in the Bronx to sketching scenes while sailing the Pacific.

Born in Caguas, Puerto Rico and shaped by travel, service, and years of creative practice, Gabriel continues to find meaning through art. Today, he lives in Johns Creek, Georgia with his wife Sharon, painting, drawing, and letting the world around him inspire each new piece. 🎨

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!” 🎸📷

This month we’re honored to highlight a powerful poem from Tanya, a U.S. Navy Veteran, retired nurse, and mother of four. As a busy parent and proud partner, Tanya also shares her life with her service dog, Charley, who loves traveling by her side. Through her creative work, she’s discovering new ways to express emotions that can be difficult to put into words.

This CAVARTist uses songwriting as a powerful tool for healing and connection. After facing major depression following his retirement in 2007, he picked up the guitar and began writing songs as a way to cope — a practice that has since become a daily passion.

Now working on his first album, Noah credits music with helping ease his depression and anxiety and finds purpose in sharing stories that resonate with others. Through CAVARTS, he values the community of Veterans who use art to support one another and keep moving forward.