Creativity, Connection and Community at ANVAM’s Festival of Veterans Arts

From intricate illustrations to emotionally resonant sculpture, the Festival of Veterans Arts (FOVA) in Melbourne celebrated the creative talents of Australian veterans and their families. 

Hosted by the Australian National Veterans Arts Museum (ANVAM), the festival is a powerful expression of connection and healing through the arts. ANVAM supports current and former ADF members, their loved ones, and anyone connected to service life. 

“The Australian National Veterans Arts Museum (ANVAM) is concerned with promoting the wellbeing of the veteran community through the arts. The community includes current and former serving members, their families and other people connected to the ADF. The community fosters creativity by providing a comfortable environment where people feel safe to express themselves and can engage with likeminded people and share stories. The community has been an amazing discovery of talent, some of which has been on display during the annual Festival of Veterans Arts (FOVA) event held in Melbourne recently.” 
— Amy Blacker, Deputy Chair and NED at ANVAM 

This year’s festival included powerful pieces like Putting Myself Back Together by Nikki Coleman—an artwork inspired by the Japanese art of kintsugi, symbolising healing and resilience after trauma. Another standout was Jack Tar by Barb Conn, an oil on canvas portrait that explores themes of identity, resilience, and reflection. Created as part of Conn’s own painting journey, the piece honours the strength and quiet determination of those who have served—especially those navigating life after the uniform.

Inspired by the creativity on display, our CEO Kasey Mumford reflected on her own time in the Royal Australian Navy: 

“I recall from my own time at sea, we had people on board who brought sewing machines and instruments. In HMAS NEWCASTLE, we even had a group of aspiring DJs who brought records and mixing decks. It’s difficult for people to imagine this happening in a war zone, but it really did happen.” 

Veterans and their families are more than their service.  

They are also artists, musicians, writers, and creators. Our team at Provocatus was proud to attend the event and support a community that shares so much strength and soul through creativity. 

The festival was held at 310 St Kilda Rd, Melbourne—ANVAM’s historic home.