World War I and America: Combat Paper and Frontline Arts at the Scotch Plains Public Library

All veterans have a story to tell. For too long, we have lived in a day and age where veterans tend to suppress their experiences – producing a culture of the “silent veteran.” Combat Paper NJ (CPNJ) is a unique participatory art project that offers artistic tools and professional instruction for all, providing a space to use art and writing to explore experiences, and ultimately share them publicly, all through papermaking.

On Thursday, September 28 at 7 pm, the Scotch Plains Public Library will welcome veterans from Combat Paper and Frontline Arts. The veterans will share their artwork and writing, created on paper they have made from re-purposed military uniforms.

The practice of community-based art, storytelling and making, engages society, gives everyone a voice, and exposes the true complexity of the veteran experience. This sparks a dialogue of the raw realities of what it means to serve in the military and live through the aftermath. These opportunities help the public better understand the complex veteran narrative, and raise awareness among witnesses that the current bridge built between veterans and society needs repairing.

Do not miss this very special program.

World War I and America is a two-year initiative of Library of America presented in partnership with The Gilder Lehrman Institute of American History, the National World War I Museum and Memorial, and other organizations, with generous support from The National Endowment for the Humanities. As one of only four New Jersey institutions to have received the World War I and America grant, and with a generous gift from the Fanwood-Scotch Plains Service League, ScotLib will offer original programming to commemorate the centennial of American involvement in World War One and to explore the ongoing experience of veterans who have served in our lifetimes.

Registration is not required. For more information and to see the listings for future events, go to http://www.scotlib.org/2017/worldwarone, email library@scotlib.org, call (908) 322-5007 x 204 or stop by the Reference Desk. The Scotch Plains Library is located at 1927 Bartle Avenue, one block from Park Avenue in the center of town.