Introducing Operation Zen
Operation Zen is our Veterans program aimed to help aid active service members or veterans learn to express themselves in an artistic manner. We’re providing an artistic outlet with glass for service members to create, experiment, be artistic, and find their own personal zen space.
Operation Zen was founded by retired Marine and Zen Glass Studio student Chris Stowe. As a former bomb disposal technician, Chris did several combat deployments that left him with a wide range of health issues such as Traumatic Brain Injury, Post Traumatic Stress, anxiety and depression. After several attempts at relief through traditional mental health therapies, they failed to provide relief, Chris found an art therapy program that helped him explore his artistic side and express his emotions in a positive way. Eventually finding glass blowing, Chris immediately knew that the lessons he learned in glass blowing applied to his personal healing, and could be helpful to other military members and veterans struggling to find help and positive outlets for their own personal issues as well. Operation Zen is an attempt to offer this opportunity to others in need.
Participants have a range of course and experience options to chose from. From single hour introductory lessons all the way to more in-depth multi-month courses, Operation Zen aims to help military and veteran members find their center and to provide a positive creative outlet for their personal journey, whatever that may be.
If you or someone you know may be interested in joining Operation Zen contact us at (727) 323-3141 or email us. Feel free to stop by the studio any time we’re open Monday–Saturday 10am-5pm.