What War Is

It includes every one of us, because we all live lesser lives for being incapable of resolving our differences peaceably. Nobody knows why we have war or if it’s possible to live without war, but it cannot be argued that life would be better if we could.

Because so many people have similar experiences, communication and story sharing is an important aspect to this project. Annie has already started a collection of articles telling of other people’s difficulties upon returning from war and there will be many more. This not only provides an opportunity for people to tell their own stories but for the community to face the realities — all of the realities — of what it means to be at war and what it does to the people who fight it.

“My highest goal,” she says, “is to bring awareness to the community.” If the government bans the filming of returning casualties and if Hollywood continues to glamorize war in movies, then let there be a voice to describe the ongoing, long-term effects of war. Let someone bear witness to the rising rates of domestic abuse, mental illness, drug abuse and suicide of returning veterans.

Annie has already begun her year long project with a Pastels on the Plaza contribution, and will host a “Meet the Artist” reception at the Westhaven Center for the Arts on Veteran’s Day (Monday), Nov. 12, from 2-4 p.m. The public is invited to drop by and talk to Annie about the project. She will also be working at the WCA every Thursday from 1-4 p.m. throughout the coming year until Veteran’s Day 2008, giving the community the unusual experience of watching a project develop over time. An exhibit of the completed work is planned for the end of her residency, and will include the honoring of all who have been affected by war.

The Westhaven Center for the Arts is located at 501 S. Westhaven Drive in Trinidad. Call 677-9493 for more information. You can also find out more about Annie’s work at anniereid.com.

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