Bullets & Bandaids

Bullets and Bandaids is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to breaking down social barriers between veterans and civilians through the transformative power of storytelling and art. Our program begins with interviews with veterans from across the world, covering a wide spectrum of experiences — from World War II to modern conflicts, from privates to generals, and across diverse cultural and social backgrounds. These stories are entrusted to civilian writers, who translate them into compelling narratives that remain true to the individual’s voice. Each narrative is then interpreted by visual artists, resulting in original works of art that embody the story in new, profound ways. The final collection is showcased in immersive exhibitions, published anthologies, and voice-over recordings for accessibility. Together, these works spark empathy, healing, and dialogue between communities while honoring the lived experiences of veterans and the civilians who share their journey. Since our founding, we have collaborated with Pulitzer Prize–winning journalists, poet laureates, Emmy-nominated filmmakers, and internationally renowned artists. Our exhibitions have been featured at institutions such as the Columbia Museum of Art and the Ringling College of Art and Design, with interest expressed from the Smithsonian and the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Volume 5 of our project includes participants from 18 countries across 6 continents, making Bullets and Bandaids a truly global initiative. At its heart, Bullets and Bandaids is about honoring humanity through creative collaboration. By giving space to honest, unfiltered stories — including those addressing PTSD, sexual trauma, racial disparities, LGBTQ issues, government neglect, resilience, and humor — we remind the world that every voice matters and that art can be a bridge to healing and understanding.