Military Uniforms Transformed into Art at Missouri Exhibition

W[A]RN and TRANSFORMED showcases personal stories of service, memory, and community through repurposed military uniforms.

Apr. 5, 2026 at 9:05am

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A bold, colorful silkscreen print featuring a military uniform jacket repeated in a grid pattern, using vibrant neon colors and heavy black outlines to create a modern pop art interpretation of the everyday military item.Military uniforms become canvases for artistic expression, transforming symbols of service into powerful works that reflect the personal experiences of those who have worn them.Columbia Today

A new exhibition at the State Historical Society of Missouri in Columbia is using military uniforms to tell personal stories of service, memory, and transformation. The exhibition, 'W[A]RN and TRANSFORMED: Uniforms as Stories of U.S.,' features historic uniforms, war-era posters, and contemporary artworks made from uniforms transformed into handmade paper known as Combat Paper.

Why it matters

The exhibition aims to provide a platform for veterans to share their experiences and perspectives through creative expression. It also coincides with the nation's upcoming 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, offering visitors an opportunity to reflect on the country's history and future.

The details

The exhibition is a collaboration between the State Historical Society of Missouri and the Missouri Historic Costume and Textile Collection at the University of Missouri. It includes an interactive 'wishing wall' where visitors can write their hopes for the country's future. The opening reception on April 11 will feature a panel discussion with veterans involved in the Combat Paper project, which transforms military uniforms into handmade paper used for various artworks.

  • The exhibition is on display through August 15, 2026.
  • The opening reception is scheduled for April 11, 2026 from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.

The players

State Historical Society of Missouri

The organization hosting the 'W[A]RN and TRANSFORMED' exhibition at the Center for Missouri Studies in Columbia.

Missouri Historic Costume and Textile Collection at the University of Missouri

The collaborating organization that is contributing to the exhibition.

Drew Cameron

The founder of the Combat Paper project, which transforms military uniforms into handmade paper used for artworks.

Martin Lesinksi

A veteran whose paper artworks appear in the exhibition.

John Schneider

A veteran whose paper artworks appear in the exhibition.

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What they’re saying

“The reception is designed to help visitors better understand the experiences behind the artwork.”

— Joan Stack, Curator of art collections for the State Historical Society of Missouri

What’s next

The exhibition will be open to the public through August 15, 2026, providing an opportunity for visitors to engage with the personal stories and creative expressions of veterans.

The takeaway

This exhibition showcases how military uniforms can be transformed into powerful works of art, serving as a platform for veterans to share their experiences and perspectives. By highlighting these personal narratives, the exhibition aims to foster greater understanding and community engagement around the sacrifices and resilience of those who have served.