Join HALO in welcoming Avery Forton, our newest artist, who brings not only incredible creative talent but also a lifelong commitment to serving others. Service has been a defining part of Avery's journey. At 18 years old, he spent a year in Honduras teaching English to second graders before serving four years in the United States Navy. After transitioning to civilian life, he found a new outlet for both his creativity and his desire to give back through painting. Over the past several years, he has donated artwork to local fundraisers, galas, and nonprofit organizations throughout the community. When a friend introduced him to HALO last year, he immediately felt a connection. While he continues to support other local organizations, HALO has become the place where he has chosen to invest his time, creativity, and heart. As one of his friends once said, "Rather than putting drops all over the place, pick a bucket and fill it up." For Avery, HALO is that bucket.
Although he has been painting seriously for the past four years—and full-time for the last two—his artistic roots go back much further. His father, a Master Designer at Hallmark, filled his childhood with creativity by making custom coloring books, posters, and art projects for the family. Even though Avery didn't originally plan to become an artist, creativity followed him everywhere. During his time in the Navy, he designed flags and uniforms while creating hundreds of comics for fellow service members. After being medically discharged and losing his leg, he spent much of his recovery exploring creative outlets. What began as painting, writing, and designing, eventually became something much bigger when someone purchased one of his paintings. That single moment inspired him to dedicate himself fully to painting, and he hasn't looked back.
When Avery was asked what he loves most about creating art, he shares that it's both the process and the finished piece. He enjoys building paintings layer by layer, believing each stage could stand on its own before continuing until the work feels complete. But perhaps the greatest reward comes after the painting leaves the studio. Seeing a finished piece hanging in someone's home and knowing it brings them joy is what makes the entire creative journey worthwhile. As he begins this new chapter with HALO, Avery hopes to contribute far beyond the canvas.
Avery has started collaborating with HALO youth on creative projects, including music videos and voice-over work, and looks forward to finding new ways to use his skills to support HALO's mission. As our resident artist, Avery spends a full day at HALO every week, working on his art, livestreaming on his YouTube channel, spreading awareness about HALO, doing art with youth, and being a positive role model for youth in our Homes and Learning Center.
Whether it's through art, volunteering, or simply lending a helping hand, everyone has something meaningful to offer. Avery's advice to aspiring artists is equally simple: master the skills that surround your craft. As a painter with a bachelor's degree in Film and a master's degree in Journalism, Avery believes that the more tools you develop, the more opportunities you'll have to tell stories, connect with others, and make a lasting impact.
"I would just like for anyone who is reading this to know, it doesn't matter what you're into, there are organizations all over that are in need of help. I urge you to support whatever makes sense to you. You can make a difference, you can make an impact. Pick up the trash, rather than walk by it." - Avery Forton
Are you interested in becoming a Resident Artist? Click the button below to connect with our HALO staff!