Operation Mud

Your donation supports therapeutic and creative opportunities for Philadelphia Veterans. 

Since 1974, The Clay Studio has worked to ensure that everyone can benefit from expression and discovery around the art and craft of clay. Every day, we deepen the connection between people and clay with the highest quality programs. We are a community where people discover and nurture creativity regardless of age, experience, gender, background, or financial means. 

Operation Mud is The Clay Studio’s new program uniquely designed to serve our community's veterans. Unlike traditional therapies, this program utilizes art to reduce stress, build self-esteem, and foster self-awareness. Research conducted by the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs supports the effectiveness of creative arts therapies in many areas, including overall physical rehabilitation.

Your support helps to provide Veterans with a safe, supportive, and creative environment that is crucial to their success and well-being. It provides an accessible, free program for Veterans to express themselves and find community. Operation Mud depends on funding to support teaching artists, curriculum development, snacks, and provide participants with professional artistic supplies.

PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS

• The program is designed by Veterans and employs Veterans as teaching artists/instructors, creating a space where a community can be built in shared experiences and empathy.

• Beyond art-making, the program provides emotional support for Veterans, creating an outlet for expressing feelings for those who have demonstrated resistance to other treatment approaches.

• As part of The Clay Studio’s ongoing effort to create responsive programming, Operating Mud is informed in real time by feedback from participants and their families.