2023 NCCCIAP: Metal Health

Jay Elias (Evolution Art Studio, Henry Ford College)

Adam Hazlett (Henry Ford College)

Upon my discharge from the Marine Corps in 1991, I suffered terribly from the effects of PTSD. This led me down a path of self-destruction which eventually turned into an 11 year prison sentence. In 2014 I met Casey Westbrook. He was a talented and amazing human who introduced me to the cast iron community, and through the creative process I began to explore the possibility of allowing myself to be vulnerable again by making things. As I found my voice, I discovered that many metaphors exist in the process of making cast iron art, and it felt natural using this creative expression to tell my story and help others heal from trauma. I am currently pursuing a degree in psychology and a master's in art therapy. My goal is to make art and the creative process available to all through a program I'm developing called METAL HEALTH. It focuses on self-expression and healing from trauma through the cast iron foundry process. This panel will focus on the work I am currently doing and how it ties into the theme of "Shift Change," as I carry on the legacy of Casey's work... always learning, always teaching.