From Service to Healing by Brian McClean

Brian McClean, a Coast Guard veteran and Philadelphia native, discovered photography as a lifeline while coping with the intense stressors of active military duty. Serving nearly 13 years, including deployments in Alaska, the Middle East, and the prestigious Presidential Honor Guard, McClean participated in over 200 funerals and numerous international ceremonies. Photography, once a hobby, became a crucial outlet for resilience and emotional healing.

Upon transitioning to civilian life, McClean pursued photography professionally, channeling his experiences into richly detailed compositions. His work often blends multiple shots of the same scene using varied lighting and exposures, creating images that offer both clarity and emotional depth.

Today, Brian McClean stands as a passionate advocate for the healing power of art. His photographs have been installed in Department of Veterans Affairs hospitals, Steven A. Cohen Military Family Clinics, UC Irvine Health, and various mental health facilities. His work is also displayed at public libraries, coffee shops, and local events, making art accessible to the broader community.

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Yoga Mat and Coffee Mug by Brian McClean

 

Applying the same ambition he honed in the military to his academic journey, McClean earned a Bachelor's in Information Systems and a Master’s in Business Administration from National University. He is currently pursuing a Doctorate in Business Administration at Westcliff University.

Brian’s mission is simple yet powerful: to encourage holistic healing, foster resilience, and build community through the universal language of art. Through his business and personal story, he brings hope to those struggling with trauma, anxiety, and depression, demonstrating firsthand how creativity can be a catalyst for healing and connection

You can learn more about Brian McClean on his website.