From Vietnam Veteran to Artist
A story of resilience, transformation, and healing—where art becomes a pathway forward.
Charlie Silver is a pastel artist whose work captures the beauty of the present moment through landscapes, skies, and memory.
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After decades in business and a life shaped by service as a U.S. Marine Corps helicopter pilot in Vietnam, Silver discovered painting later in life as part of his journey through healing. What began as therapy became something more—an artistic voice rooted in reflection, renewal, and wonder.
ABOUT CHARLIE SILVER
Charlie Silver is a pastel artist and Vietnam veteran whose work explores memory, nature, and personal transformation.
​He began painting in 2023 as part of his healing journey from post-traumatic stress. Through creative expression, Silver found a way to shift his focus from the weight of past experiences toward the beauty and stillness of the present moment.
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His work often features:
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Expansive landscapes and skies
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Birds and natural environments
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Figures and memory-driven imagery
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Each piece reflects a rediscovery of curiosity and wonder—an artist seeing the world anew.
THE STORY
From Combat Pilot to Artist
Charlie served in the United States Marine Corp from 1968 - 1973, with an impressive 698 combat missions as a helicopter pilot in the Vietnam War, earning both the Air Medal and Purple Heart.
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After a successful career in business consulting, he retired in 2017 when the effects of PTSD began to interfere with his life. While traditional therapy helped, something was still missing.
That changed in 2023.
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After reading about artist and clinical mental health counselor Lamar Whidbee, Silver reached out. What began as art therapy sessions quickly evolved into a creative partnership—and a turning point.
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Silver had never painted before. Within months, he was creating vivid works inspired by both memory and discovery.
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Today, his work reflects not only where he has been—but where he is now.
UPCOMING EXHIBITION
Journey to Healing
A collaborative exhibition by Charlie Silver and Lamar Whidbee
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Location:
Frameworks Gallery and Frame Design
Raleigh, North Carolina
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Dates:
April 30 – May 31, 2026
About the Exhibition
Journey to Healing is a powerful exhibition exploring the intersection of art, memory, and healing. The show features the work of Vietnam veteran Charlie Silver and North Carolina artist and clinical mental health counselor Lamar Whidbee.
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Through paintings and drawings, the exhibition highlights how creative expression can help process trauma, rediscover purpose, and build human connection. Timed to coincide with Mental Health Awareness Month and National Military Appreciation Month, the exhibition honors veterans and raises awareness of the transformative potential of art therapy.
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The collaboration between Silver and Whidbee began unexpectedly in 2023 and evolved into a profound artistic partnership that demonstrates how creativity can open pathways to healing.
Events
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Opening Reception: April 30, 2026
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Art & Healing Event: May 9, 2026
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Artist Workshop: May 13, 2026
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Artist Talk & Reception: May 21, 2026
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Admission is free.
ABOUT THE COLLABORATION
Lamar Whidbee
Lamar Whidbee is an interdisciplinary artist, educator, and licensed clinical mental health counselor. His work explores memory, identity, and healing through painting and participatory projects.
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​His background in therapeutic art programs informs a practice centered on emotional processing, reflection, and transformation—making him a unique partner in Silver’s artistic journey.
