Mark Thompson, an artist from Greater Napanee, is using his artistic creativity to support Wounded Warriors Canada. Thompson calls art “self-imposed therapy” and is using it to help others.

Thompson is an artist from the Greater Napanee area**, not Toronto,** and the founder of Wild Expressions Studio. He has launched a mission-driven art initiative combining expressive, nature-inspired fine art for a good cause. As a correctional officer and former youth worker, Thompson understands how stressful and emotionally difficult service jobs can be, especially for people who deal with trauma every day. He says these experiences can affect not only the workers but also their families. Thompson took on art as a personal way to cope with stress and feel like himself again, and is now helping others find a sense of peace.

Taking inspiration from how art can help lift mood and emotions, Thompson created Wild Expressions, where he makes artwork focused on emotion, connection, and healing. A portion of the sales from WildExpressions.ca is donated to support Wounded Warriors Canada. Thompson recently formalized his affiliation as a donor and is working toward hosting fundraising events. Wounded Warriors Canada helps trauma-exposed veterans, first responders, and others in high-stress jobs with mental health support, peer programs, and services for families.

Through his initiative, Thompson hopes to collaborate with galleries, community organizations, and supporters who believe art can be both beautiful and impactful.

Source: Michelle Dorey Forestell, The Kingston Whig Standard