Depicting the Invisible Susan J. Barron

Artist Susan J Barron discusses her portrait of Pt. Ken Weinert with Josh Mantz, a motivational speaker and process philosopher focused on trauma, consciousness, and near-death experiences. They discuss both Josh and Ken’s near death experiences, what it is like to die, Josh’s military service, PTSD, the concept of moral injury and the power of ancient philosophy to heal trauma.

Artist Susan J. Barron and Dr. Craig Bryan have a wide ranging dialogue around subjects such as Depicting the Invisible, veteran suicide prevention, hopeful new approaches to PTSD treatments, and Dr. Bryan's life-changing experiences in Iraq that cemented his commitment to saving lives. Barron's portrait of Sgt. Damon Zeigler, who sadly took his own life, is the catalyst for the conversation. This work is currently on exhibition at the National Veterans Memorial and Museum in Columbus.

Sue Coe is one of the foremost political artists working today. She has been called the greatest living practitioner of confrontational revolutionary art. In this episode of the Depicting the Invisible podcast, Susan and Sue discuss Rena Trotter's portrait and military sexual assault. They talk about their individual art practices, and the power of art to inspire and collectively heal.

Artist Susan J. Barron discusses her portrait of Danielle Diamantara with Three Star General Michael Ferriter, CEO of the National Veterans Memorial and Museum in Columbus. General Ferriter discusses issues of military sexual assault and a path to eradication, as well as his role as the CEO of a national museum representing the veterans experience.

Artist Susan J. Barron discusses her portrait of Sgt. Akeem Brewster with Samir Bitar, a leader in the museum field. Samir expresses his own personal experiences with PTSD, suicide, and Veterans homelessness. He discusses his role at the Smithsonian and the role of museums in our national dialogue.

Artist Susan J. Barron discusses her portrait of Sgt. Brian Torres with guest Stephen Bradford, also a veteran suffering from PTSD. Stephen shares his story of PTSD and multiple acts of suicide. He discusses how music saved him, and how he works to share the healing power of music with others. Then listen to the Stephen Bradford Band Live from Scottsdale, Az.