LOS ANGELES (July 2026) — Inside Hospital of Emotions, a limited-time immersive art exhibition featuring more than 80 installations by artists from around the world, one room asks visitors to consider what happens after military service ends. The Ward That Never Closed, created by artist Paal Anand in collaboration with Veterans Stand Together (VST), uses immersive storytelling, personal artifacts, and veterans’ lived experiences to explore the lasting impact of service and the importance of connection beyond the uniform.
Anand partnered with George Casillas, Executive Director of VST, a partner in the Los Angeles County Department of Military and Veterans Affairs’ (MVA) Veteran Peer Access Network (VPAN) for Supervisorial District 4 (SD4), and team members throughout the creative process.
Veterans shared personal stories, donated meaningful relics, and transformed the installation from a single narrative into three experiences that reflect the many realities of life after service while building a bridge between veterans and the broader community.
“Consultants validate your work. Co-creators change it,” Anand said. “George and the veterans at VST changed this installation in ways I couldn’t have anticipated.”
The Ward That Never Closed places visitors inside a hospital room designed to look as though it’s been affected by an explosion. In the room, holographic figures share stories inspired by military service, offering visitors a glimpse into experiences that are often difficult to describe.
“The first time I showed a veteran a test render of the holographic figures… I thought I was showing him a technical achievement. He looked at it and said, ‘That’s what it feels like. You’re there but you’re not there. People can see through you.’ That’s when I understood that the holographic medium wasn’t just an aesthetic choice. It was the right medium for this subject.” Anand said.
The stories and artifacts, including combat boots, uniforms, and a burial flag donated by VPAN SD4 – VST team members, reinforce that the experiences represented are rooted in real lives. Contributions by VPAN SD4 – VST staff are deeply personal, shaped by experiences of loss and the shared commitment to supporting veterans and their families through community, peer connection, and purpose.
“Veterans carry a lot with them — service, sacrifice, memories, pride, pain, transition, and sometimes trauma. This project created a space where those experiences could be honored with dignity.” Casillas said.
For Casillas, the installation reflects the mission of VST by creating opportunities for veterans to share their stories on their own terms while helping communities better understand the person behind the uniform.
“If this installation encourages even one person to ask, ‘How can I stand with veterans in a real, practical, and lasting way?’ then it has accomplished something truly meaningful,” Casillas said.
As visitors leave The Ward That Never Closed, the final message shifts from reflection to action, encouraging anyone facing a crisis to reach out to 988, VST, or someone they trust. Together, the installation and its partnership with VST and VPAN SD4 – VST remind visitors that while military service may end, the need for community, understanding, and connection does not.
Story and photos by Layla Romero, Public Information Staff Assistant, Los Angeles County Department of Military and Veterans Affairs
