In the aftermath of war, where silence often reigns, Marine veteran Timothy Colomer uses a paintbrush to give voice to the unspeakable. See more of his portfolio on his website.
“Daily Emotions” oil on canvas, 24″ x 36″
I am a United States Marine Corps veteran who served as an Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) technician (bomb squad). My journey through life has been marked by intense experiences, some of which have left indelible marks on my body and mind. In 2006, I was injured in an explosion, a moment that drastically changed my life. The injuries I sustained led to PTSD and a traumatic brain injury (TBI), challenges that I have had to navigate every day since.
“My PTSD Monster” acrylic on canvas, 10″ x 8″
Art has become my sanctuary, my therapy, my way of processing the chaos inside my mind. Painting allows me to express the dark emotions that I struggle to verbalize. There is a profound release in taking a blank canvas and filling it with the shadows and complexities that haunt my thoughts. The act of painting these dark emotions helps me externalize my pain, turning something intangible and oppressive into a tangible piece of art.
“Moonlight Meal” acrylic on canvas, 9″ x 12″
However, the weight of these dark emotions can be overwhelming. When the heaviness becomes too much to bear, I shift my focus to lighter, brighter subjects. I paint fun and vibrant scenes of animals, lively ocean vistas, and even whimsical, strange clowns. These pieces are a breath of fresh air, a necessary counterbalance to the intensity of my darker work. They remind me that there is joy and absurdity in life, even amidst the struggles.
“All Grown Up” acrylic on canvas, 40″ x 30″
My approach to painting is fluid and ever-changing, much like my emotions. I do not adhere to one specific style; instead, I let my feelings dictate how I will paint a subject. Some days, my emotions are raw and chaotic, and my brushstrokes reflect that intensity. Other days, my mood is calmer, and my work takes on a more serene and structured form. This variability in style is a reflection of my journey through healing, where no two days are the same.
“Grenade Platter” acrylic on canvas, 14″ x 11″
There are times when a single painting evolves over several days, its style shifting as my emotions change. A piece that starts in a dark, brooding manner might transform into something brighter and more hopeful as I work through my feelings. This process is cathartic and helps me to see the evolution of my own emotional state.
“Loss of a Friend” acrylic on canvas, 10″ x 8″
Art has given me a voice when words fail. It has allowed me to connect with others who might be going through similar struggles, offering them a glimpse into my world and, perhaps, helping them feel less alone. Each painting is a piece of my soul, a testament to my resilience and my ongoing battle with PTSD and TBI.
“USS Awesome” acrylic on canvas, 36″ x 24″
In sharing my art, I hope to shed light on the therapeutic power of creativity. For me, painting is not just a hobby; it is a lifeline. It is a way to navigate the storms within and find moments of peace. Through my art, I strive to convey the message that even in the darkest times, there is beauty to be found, and that healing is an ongoing, transformative journey.
Timothy Colomer invites you to follow on Instagram and Facebook.
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