In a remarkable story of rehabilitation and reinvention, former soldier Kevin Devonport has transformed his life through art, discovering his talent during his time spent in the justice system.
Now, as Care after Combat proudly announces Kevin’s appointment as an Ambassador for the charity, we’ll be exploring the journey that has led Kevin to the life and achievements that he has worked so hard for today.
Kevin Devonport’s Journey
Kevin’s journey reflects the challenges that many veterans like himself face after service. Leaving the army at 21, he struggled with drug addiction and, as a result, found himself involved with the justice system at various points in his life.
However, after entering the justice system once more at 35, Kevin made a life-changing decision.
Kevin recalls being encouraged to join an art class and, while not seeing himself as an artist at the time, decided to give it a go.
He refers to his first piece as “a little landscape,” and while not believing it to be his best work, he found that the process of creation struck something inside of him.
This moment marked the beginning of an extraordinary artistic journey, with Kevin going on to win his first national award while still in the justice system.
Kevin’s Work Today
Today, Kevin has been celebrating his first physical solo exhibition, “Nothing Ordinary Here,” displayed in London’s Leadenhall Market. In this exhibition, Kevin explores themes of consumerism, materiality, and identity through 12 striking paintings.
His work will also be displayed in York’s Art of Protest Gallery for a month in January 2025.
Working from his studio space at Assembly House in Armley, Leeds, Kevin hasn’t forgotten his roots. He continues to work in the charity sector and maintains close ties with Care after Combat, even returning to prisons to share his inspiring journey with current inmates in his old art class.
Kevin’s story embodies Care after Combat’s mission – supporting veterans in the justice system to rebuild their lives and realise their potential. His journey from soldier to artist, from incarceration to inspiration, shows that with the right support and determination, transformation is possible.
As an Ambassador for Care after Combat, Kevin will help us reach more veterans in need, showing them that their past doesn’t define their future.
You can view Kevin’s work and find out more about his next exhibitions here.
