The Art of the Red Kettle: Katskaboodle by Clark
“KatskaboodlebyClark” is a team of two combat Veterans who have discovered that art therapy helps to heal invisible wounds and residuals from military service. From 2000 – 2013, both Jeff and Jaime served their country. Jeff was in the Navy and Jaime was in the Air Force. During their service, Jeff deployed to Afghanistan and Jaime deployed to Iraq.
Solace is found in creating art and has become their most successful therapy. Jeff and Jaime deal with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder daily. Crowds, hyper-vigilance, feeling overwhelmed, noise, and interactions with society affect each of them differently, as a result of their combat experiences. In 2018, Jaime received a medical disability from her civilian job, as her diagnosed combat disabilities became too much to manage. Immersing herself in art has allowed her to find an outlet to society and once again feel successful.
Like many disabled Veterans, Jeff and Jaime sought treatment from the Department of Veteran Affairs. Their staff taught skills and tools to help Veterans find their focus and keep Veterans grounded. Their suggested medium was artwork. Jeff and Jaime have taken a number of art classes such as knitting, jewelry making, painting, and sewing. After each class, they enthusiastically immersed themselves in this form of expressionism.
According to the American Art Therapy Association, “Art therapy is the therapeutic use of art making, within a professional relationship, by people who experience illness, trauma, or challenges in living, and by people who seek personal development. Through creating art and reflecting on the art products and processes, people can increase awareness of self and others; cope with symptoms, stress, and traumatic experiences; enhance cognitive abilities, and enjoy the life-affirming pleasures of making art.”
Why did you want to participate in The Art of the Red Kettle?
The Red Kettle has been the icon of the Salvation Army for 125 years. I wanted to take this art medium and come up with an eye-catching piece of art that can be used to influence more donations.
What is your favorite aspect of the Salvation Army?
The Salvation Army is very involved with Veterans. The Salvation Army provides shelter, adult rehabilitation centers, and specific services for Veterans.
How did you first learn about The Salvation Army?
have seen The Salvation Army mentioned in the news when there has been a disaster.
What is the inspiration for your kettle art design?
The globe represents The Salvation Army as an organization that has reached out to over 130 countries and offered their services. The light bulb reminds me of hope, that no matter how dark the world may seem, there is always room for us as individuals, to make it better and provide hope for those who are not as fortunate.
What are your social media handles so we can follow your kettle?
On Facebook we are KatskaboodlebyClark Our webpage is KatsKaboodlebyClark.com. Our email is c130nav95@sbcglobal.net
Each day until the Milwaukee County Red Kettle Kickoff, we will feature each of the artists participating in The Art of the Red Kettle. At the end of our friendly competition, there will be three artists who win the titles of Most Social Media Likes, Most Funds Raised, and Most Creative. You can help us decide! On November 9th, we will post a photo album of each artist's kettle. You can vote for your favorite kettle by liking that kettle's photo. If you'd like to help the artists raise the most funds, you can visit: salar.my/KETTLEART and donate to your favorite kettle. Funds will support The Salvation Army's Red Kettle Campaign which supports over 80 programs and services throughout Milwaukee County. Thank you for supporting The Salvation Army and local artists.