Patrick Dillon, 63, is among the 31 percent of Vietnam veterans suffering from the effects of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). He’s one of the few that channels that trauma into his artwork. In order to help with the healing process, Dillon produces extremely violent and graphic art, which often relates to Agent Orange. Many of the art pieces are called children of chemical warfare. Dillon, who has suffered from mental health problems, spent time at the Montrose Mental health medical center for years after his time in Vietnam. Working in his Harlem studio, Dillon uses his art to self-soothe.
