Veteran Story Lab is a structured, Veteran-led storytelling cohort designed to foster connection, creativity, and narrative craft. Veterans gather in a respectful, well-facilitated environment to explore true stories drawn from their lives. service, transition, identity, humor, resilience, leadership, family, and reinvention.

Participants are guided through practical storytelling frameworks, focused prompts, and shared listening. The lab emphasizes structure, imagination, and discipline in the craft of personal narrative. Veterans are not pressured to perform or disclose beyond their comfort level. What is shared in the room stays in the room unless a participant chooses to develop their work for public presentation or collaboration with other creative cohorts.

This is a space where Veterans build story with intention and imagination. Through craft, structure, and shared creative practice, participants leave with stronger storytelling tools, a clearer voice, and connection forged through the work itself.

Space limited to 12 participants - REGISTRATION STRONGLY ENCOURAGED.

RSVP HERE: https://forms.gle/ckArecRD2CwqowUj8

Veteran Story Lab is a structured, Veteran-led storytelling cohort designed to foster connection, creativity, and narrative craft. Veterans gather in a respectful, well-facilitated environment to explore true stories drawn from their lives. service, transition, identity, humor, resilience, leadership, family, and reinvention.

Participants are guided through practical storytelling frameworks, focused prompts, and shared listening. The lab emphasizes structure, imagination, and discipline in the craft of personal narrative. Veterans are not pressured to perform or disclose beyond their comfort level. What is shared in the room stays in the room unless a participant chooses to develop their work for public presentation or collaboration with other creative cohorts.

This is a space where Veterans build story with intention and imagination. Through craft, structure, and shared creative practice, participants leave with stronger storytelling tools, a clearer voice, and connection forged through the work itself.

Space limited to 12 participants - REGISTRATION STRONGLY ENCOURAGED.

RSVP HERE: https://forms.gle/ckArecRD2CwqowUj8

Connecting the Dots: A Creative Workshop for Veterans

Friday, March 13 | 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Steven A. Cohen Military Family Clinic at Red Rock

In partnership with the Steven A. Cohen Military Family Clinic at Red Rock, SPARK! Creative Lab presents Connecting the Dots, a free, hands-on creative workshop for Veterans.

This two-hour, community-based workshop invites Veterans to experiment, explore, and collaborate in a welcoming, low-pressure creative environment. Using Morse code as both a practical and symbolic entry point, participants will work with rhythm, visual patterns, and simple creative prompts to explore new ways of thinking and making.

Together, we’ll:

• Translate short words or phrases into Morse code

• Experiment with code-based rhythm and percussion

• Explore visual design inspired by coded patterns

• Play with pattern, structure, and creative problem-solving

No prior experience is needed. All Veterans, from all service branches and eras, are welcome.

These workshops are free, non-clinical, and Veteran-led, and are designed as collaborative exchanges rather than classes or performances. Participation is always optional, and curiosity is encouraged.

This workshop is offered in partnership with the Cohen Clinic but is not a clinical or therapeutic service.

Lunch will be provided.

Whether you come to experiment, connect, or simply try something new, you are welcome here.

FREE

RSVP: Eventbrite Link
(Walk-ins are welcome, though RSVPs help us plan.)

Please note: This workshop is designed for Veterans only.

Movement Lab: Women Veterans
A free, six-week movement cohort for Women Veterans, offering space for gentle, accessible movement, bodily awareness, and shared expression. No dance experience required. Participation is invitational and at your own pace. See full details at sparklahoma.org/women-veterans
Sunday, March 8
4:00–6:00 pm
Oklahoma Contemporary Arts Center
Free

Registration required.
👉 Learn more & register here: https://forms.gle/DPFGdR2rzHqxekxcA

Movement Lab: Women Veterans
A free, six-week movement cohort for Women Veterans, offering space for gentle, accessible movement, bodily awareness, and shared expression. No dance experience required. Participation is invitational and at your own pace. See full details at sparklahoma.org/women-veterans
Sunday, March 1
Sunday, March 8
4:00–6:00 pm
Oklahoma Contemporary Arts Center
Free

Registration required.
👉 Learn more & register here: https://forms.gle/DPFGdR2rzHqxekxcA

Movement Lab: Women Veterans
A free, six-week movement cohort for Women Veterans, offering space for gentle, accessible movement, bodily awareness, and shared expression. No dance experience required. Participation is invitational and at your own pace. See full details at sparklahoma.org/women-veterans
Sunday, February 22
Sunday, March 1
Sunday, March 8
4:00–6:00 pm
Oklahoma Contemporary Arts Center
Free

Registration required.
👉 Learn more & register here: https://forms.gle/DPFGdR2rzHqxekxcA

Dust off your axe or try one for the first time. No experience needed and guitars are provided. Whether you’ve never played, haven’t played in years, or gig every weekend, you’ve got a spot in our circle. Earplugs provided ;)

Saturday, February 21, 2026 | 1:00-3:00 p.m.

Low pressure. High groove. Come as you are. 🎸

We’re back with our pals at The Soundbar on February 19th with a low-key evening for past SPARK! participants to reconnect - and for curious Veterans to come see what we’re about.

Snacks provided. Easy conversation. Good music. A beautiful scene.

Think of it as a quarterly hang with good humans and no agenda beyond being together.

Movement Lab: Women Veterans
A free, six-week movement cohort for Women Veterans, offering space for gentle, accessible movement, bodily awareness, and shared expression. No dance experience required. Participation is invitational and at your own pace. See full details at sparklahoma.org/women-veterans

Sunday, February 8
Sunday, February 15
Sunday, February 22
Sunday, March 1
Sunday, March 8
4:00–6:00 pm
Oklahoma Contemporary Arts Center
Free

Registration required.
👉 Learn more & register here: https://forms.gle/DPFGdR2rzHqxekxcA

Movement Lab: Women Veterans
A free, six-week movement cohort for Women Veterans, offering space for gentle, accessible movement, bodily awareness, and shared expression. No dance experience required. Participation is invitational and at your own pace. See full details at sparklahoma.org/women-veterans

Sunday, February 8
Sunday, February 15
Sunday, February 22
Sunday, March 1
Sunday, March 8
4:00–6:00 pm
Oklahoma Contemporary Arts Center
Free

Registration required.
👉 Learn more & register here: https://forms.gle/DPFGdR2rzHqxekxcA

Movement Lab: Women Veterans
A free, six-week movement cohort for Women Veterans, offering space for gentle, accessible movement, bodily awareness, and shared expression. No dance experience required. Participation is invitational and at your own pace. See full details at sparklahoma.org/women-veterans

Sundays, February 1–March 8
4:00–6:00 pm
Oklahoma Contemporary Arts Center
Free

Registration required.
👉 Learn more & register here: https://forms.gle/DPFGdR2rzHqxekxcA

Flow & Mingle: A Holiday Open House
Join SPARK! Creative Lab, ThisLand Yoga, and The Siotha Project for an afternoon of movement, art, and community care in support of Veterans and their families.

The event begins at 2:00 pm with a free, all-levels grounding flow led by Veteran and recent TLY graduate Reagan Johnson. After class, stay to mingle, enjoy holiday treats, and view artwork created by Veterans, including masks exhibited at Oklahoma Contemporary as part of Ditty Bops 2025, along with work by Veteran artists Zackary Milner (Golden Bison Leather) and Marcia Ermey.

The studio will be open 2:00–5:00 pm for a come-and-go gathering. A $20 donation enters guests into a holiday prize drawing benefiting SPARK! Creative Lab and The Siotha Project. Donations are welcome even if you cannot attend in person.

The 2:00 p.m. class is free, though space is limited. Reserve your spot here!

Veterans & Alumni of our wildly popular “Connecting the Dots” creative workshops are warmly invited to an informal gathering at The Soundbar! Snacks & soft drinks provided, cash bar available. Hang out & connect with Veterans and allies in a low-key, relaxing space like no other in OKC!

Do us a solid and RSVP so we order enough food :)

RSVP HERE

We can’t wait to see you!

We’re thrilled to be a finalist at Paseo FEAST, a unique community dinner where the arts take center stage. Ditty Bops 2025 is in the running for up to $2,000 in funding - and your vote can help us get there!

Here’s how it works:

• $50 ticket = a night of food + art

• 5 artists each share their vision for 5 minutes

• The audience votes for the winner

• Winner splits the pot with the Paseo Arts Association 🎉

There’s about $2,000 on the line and you KNOW we’re going for it.

This is a big deal on the local front, y’all. So come support artists, cast your vote for SPARK!, and help us raise money to honor Veterans through the arts. RSVP HERE!

Ditty Bops: Connecting the Dots

A Veterans’ Creative Workshop

In partnership with American Legion Post 12, SPARK! Creative Lab is honored to present the Ditty Bops: Connecting the Dots veterans' creative workshop. This free, two-hour workshop invites Veterans to experiment, explore, and collaborate in a creative space where curiosity leads the way. Using Morse code as both a literal and metaphorical tool, participants will play with rhythm, visual patterns, and language—discovering new ways to express ideas and build connections.

Together, we’ll:
🔹 Translate meaningful words or phrases into Morse code
🔹 Experiment with code-based percussion and rhythm
🔹 Explore visual design inspired by coded patterns
🔹 Encode patterns into language and spoken word

This is a space for creative problem-solving, shared discovery, and "safe creative failure"—because sometimes the best ideas come from the unexpected. No prior experience is needed, and all Veterans from all service branches and eras are welcome.

Led by experienced artists and facilitators, this workshop is designed as a collaborative exchange—we share what we know, we listen to what you bring, and together, we explore. Participants may also have the opportunity to contribute to the broader Ditty Bops: The Art of Listening project, including live performances and exhibitions.

Join us for an engaging and low-pressure creative experience—whether you come to experiment, connect, or just try something new.

FREE!

RSVP: Google Form

SPECIAL NOTE! We will screen Ditty Bops the Art of Listening, our short documentary by Zachary Burns, directly after the workshop. Join us!

(walk-ins are welcome, but RSVPs truly help us plan)

PLEASE NOTE: These hands-on creative workshops are designed specifically for Veterans, active-duty service members, and their immediate support networks (caregivers + close family are welcome with the presence of their Veteran).

LEARN MORE ABOUT DITTY BOPS | THE ART OF LISTENING HONORING U.S. AIR FORCE VETERAN NEIL CHAPMAN CLICK HERE

Ditty Bops: Connecting the Dots

A Veterans’ Creative Workshop

In partnership with Oklahoma Contemporary Arts Center and the Oklahoma City Museum of Art, SPARK! Creative Lab is honored to present the Ditty Bops: Connecting the Dots veterans' creative workshop. This free, two-hour workshop invites Veterans to experiment, explore, and collaborate in a creative space where curiosity leads the way. Using Morse code as both a literal and metaphorical tool, participants will play with rhythm, visual patterns, and language—discovering new ways to express ideas and build connections.

Together, we’ll:
🔹 Translate meaningful words or phrases into Morse code
🔹 Experiment with code-based percussion and rhythm
🔹 Explore visual design inspired by coded patterns
🔹 Encode patterns into language and spoken word

This is a space for creative problem-solving, shared discovery, and "safe creative failure"—because sometimes the best ideas come from the unexpected. No prior experience is needed, and all Veterans from all service branches and eras are welcome.

Led by experienced artists and facilitators, this workshop is designed as a collaborative exchange—we share what we know, we listen to what you bring, and together, we explore. Participants may also have the opportunity to contribute to the broader Ditty Bops: The Art of Listening project, including live performances and exhibitions.

Join us for an engaging and low-pressure creative experience—whether you come to experiment, connect, or just try something new.

FREE!

RSVP: Google Form

(walk-ins are welcome, but RSVPs truly help us plan)

PLEASE NOTE: These hands-on creative workshops are designed specifically for Veterans, active-duty service members, and their immediate support networks (caregivers + close family are welcome with the presence of their Veteran).

LEARN MORE ABOUT DITTY BOPS | THE ART OF LISTENING HONORING U.S. AIR FORCE VETERAN NEIL CHAPMAN CLICK HERE

Ditty Bops: Connecting the Dots

A Veterans’ Creative Workshop

In partnership with Oklahoma Contemporary Arts Center and the Oklahoma City Museum of Art, SPARK! Creative Lab is honored to present the Ditty Bops: Connecting the Dots veterans' creative workshop. This free, two-hour workshop invites Veterans to experiment, explore, and collaborate in a creative space where curiosity leads the way. Using Morse code as both a literal and metaphorical tool, participants will play with rhythm, visual patterns, and language—discovering new ways to express ideas and build connections.

Together, we’ll:
🔹 Translate meaningful words or phrases into Morse code
🔹 Experiment with code-based percussion and rhythm
🔹 Explore visual design inspired by coded patterns
🔹 Encode patterns into language and spoken word

This is a space for creative problem-solving, shared discovery, and "safe creative failure"—because sometimes the best ideas come from the unexpected. No prior experience is needed, and all Veterans from all service branches and eras are welcome.

Led by experienced artists and facilitators, this workshop is designed as a collaborative exchange—we share what we know, we listen to what you bring, and together, we explore. Participants may also have the opportunity to contribute to the broader Ditty Bops: The Art of Listening project, including live performances and exhibitions.

Join us for an engaging and low-pressure creative experience—whether you come to experiment, connect, or just try something new.

FREE!

RSVP: Google Form

PLEASE NOTE: These hands-on creative workshops are designed specifically for Veterans, active-duty service members, and their immediate support networks (caregivers + close family are welcome with the presence of their Veteran).

(walk-ins are welcome, but RSVPs truly help us plan)

LEARN MORE ABOUT DITTY BOPS | THE ART OF LISTENING HONORING U.S. AIR FORCE VETERAN NEIL CHAPMAN CLICK HERE

We’re bringing Connecting the Dots, our Morse Code-based creative workshop for Veterans, to VFW Post 7192 in Midwest City this summer. This free workshop is designed to support individual expression, connection, and well-being through rhythm, creativity, and community.

Together, we’ll:

🔹 Translate meaningful words or phrases into Morse code

🔹 Experiment with code-based percussion and rhythm

🔹 Explore visual design inspired by coded patterns

🔹 Encode patterns into language and spoken word

Guided by a team of experienced artists and facilitators, the workshop is structured as a collaborative exchange. The leaders will share their knowledge while actively listening to the unique experiences and ideas that participants bring. Together, everyone will explore creative possibilities in an engaging and low-pressure environment.

In addition to the workshop itself, participants may have the chance to contribute their work to the broader "Ditty Bops: The Art of Listening" project, which includes future exhibitions and live performances. We encourage you to join us for this creative experience, whether your goal is to experiment, connect with others, or simply try something new.

Veterans of all backgrounds are invited to explore their own words, experiences, and inner voice—no artistic experience necessary. Come as you are, leave with something meaningful.

FREE EVENT! - - RSVP here: Google Form

PLEASE NOTE: These hands-on creative workshops are designed specifically for Veterans, Active-Duty Service Members, and their immediate support networks (caregivers + close family are welcome with the presence of their Military Affiliated).

(walk-ins are welcome, but RSVPs truly help us plan)

LEARN MORE ABOUT DITTY BOPS | THE ART OF LISTENING HONORING U.S. AIR FORCE VETERAN NEIL CHAPMAN CLICK HERE

We’re over the moon to bring Ditty Bops home to Oklahoma City as an official selection of deadCenter Film Festival, an Oscar®-qualifying festival that celebrates fearless, genre-defying storytelling.

At the heart of this short film is Dr. Neil Chapman: Vietnam veteran, Morse Code interceptor, and renowned photographer. Through his story and his art, Ditty Bops invites us to listen more deeply—to the quiet codes of sacrifice, to the toll of service, and to the enduring beauty of human resilience.

Expertly-crafted into film by Zachary Burns and created in collaboration with Oklahoma veterans, Ditty Bops is part of a larger, multidisciplinary movement fusing Morse Code, rhythm, choreography, and spoken word to elevate unheard voices and reimagine the way we connect.

We can’t wait to share this with our hometown. Come celebrate with us.

Read more about Ditty Bops
Read more at deadCenter!

We’re over the moon to bring Ditty Bops home to Oklahoma City as an official selection of deadCenter Film Festival, an Oscar®-qualifying festival that celebrates fearless, genre-defying storytelling.

At the heart of this short film is Dr. Neil Chapman: Vietnam veteran, Morse Code interceptor, and renowned photographer. Through his story and his art, Ditty Bops invites us to listen more deeply—to the quiet codes of sacrifice, to the toll of service, and to the enduring beauty of human resilience.

Expertly-crafted into film by Zachary Burns and created in collaboration with Oklahoma veterans, Ditty Bops is part of a larger, multidisciplinary movement fusing Morse Code, rhythm, choreography, and spoken word to elevate unheard voices and reimagine the way we connect.

We can’t wait to share this with our hometown. Come celebrate with us.

Read more about Ditty Bops
Read more at deadCenter!

Ditty Bops: Connecting the Dots

A Veterans’ Creative Workshop

In partnership with Oklahoma Contemporary Arts Center and the Oklahoma City Museum of Art, SPARK! Creative Lab is honored to present the Ditty Bops: Connecting the Dots veterans' creative workshop. This free, two-hour workshop invites Veterans to experiment, explore, and collaborate in a creative space where curiosity leads the way. Using Morse code as both a literal and metaphorical tool, participants will play with rhythm, visual patterns, and language—discovering new ways to express ideas and build connections.

Together, we’ll do things like:
🔹 Translate meaningful words or phrases into Morse code
🔹 Experiment with code-based percussion and rhythm
🔹 Explore visual design inspired by coded patterns
🔹 Encode patterns into language and spoken word

This is a space for creative problem-solving, shared discovery, and "safe creative failure"—because sometimes the best ideas come from the unexpected. No prior experience is needed, and all Veterans from all service branches and eras are welcome.

Led by experienced artists and facilitators, this workshop is designed as a collaborative exchange—we share what we know, we listen to what you bring, and together, we explore. Participants may also have the opportunity to contribute to the broader Ditty Bops: The Art of Listening project, including live performances and exhibitions.

Join us for an engaging and low-pressure creative experience—whether you come to experiment, connect, or just try something new.

FREE!

RSVP: Google Form

(walk-ins are welcome, but RSVPs truly help us plan)

PLEASE NOTE: These hands-on creative workshops are designed specifically for Veterans, active-duty service members, and their immediate support networks (caregivers + close family are welcome with the presence of their Veteran).

LEARN MORE ABOUT DITTY BOPS | THE ART OF LISTENING HONORING U.S. AIR FORCE VETERAN NEIL CHAPMAN CLICK HERE

SPARK! is proud to once again partner as Presenting Sponsor of the Calderón Dance Festival, alongside OK Let’s Dance, a vibrant initiative of the Kirkpatrick Family Fund.

This all-day, family-friendly celebration honors the life and visionary artistry of the late Shannon Calderón, bringing her passion for dance and community to the heart of OKC. It’s a festival powered by rhythm, movement, and the belief that dance should be for everyone.

Come for the choreography. Stay for the community. 💃🕺

✨ See the full schedule and join the movement: calderondancefestival.org

A joyful tribute to Shannon’s dream of building an accessible, inclusive, and wildly creative dance world.

Ditty Bops: Connecting the Dots

A Veterans’ Creative Workshop

In partnership with Oklahoma Contemporary Arts Center and the Oklahoma City Museum of Art, SPARK! Creative Lab is honored to present the Ditty Bops: Connecting the Dots veterans' creative workshop. This free, two-hour workshop invites Veterans to experiment, explore, and collaborate in a creative space where curiosity leads the way. Using Morse code as both a literal and metaphorical tool, participants will play with rhythm, visual patterns, and language—discovering new ways to express ideas and build connections.

Together, we’ll:
🔹 Translate meaningful words or phrases into Morse code
🔹 Experiment with code-based percussion and rhythm
🔹 Explore visual design inspired by coded patterns
🔹 Encode patterns into language and spoken word

This is a space for creative problem-solving, shared discovery, and "safe creative failure"—because sometimes the best ideas come from the unexpected. No prior experience is needed, and all Veterans from all service branches and eras are welcome.

Led by experienced artists and facilitators, this workshop is designed as a collaborative exchange—we share what we know, we listen to what you bring, and together, we explore. Participants may also have the opportunity to contribute to the broader Ditty Bops: The Art of Listening project, including live performances and exhibitions.

Join us for an engaging and low-pressure creative experience—whether you come to experiment, connect, or just try something new.

FREE!

RSVP: Google Form

(walk-ins are welcome, but RSVPs truly help us plan)

PLEASE NOTE: These hands-on creative workshops are designed specifically for Veterans, active-duty service members, and their immediate support networks (caregivers + close family are welcome with the presence of their Veteran).

LEARN MORE ABOUT DITTY BOPS | THE ART OF LISTENING HONORING U.S. AIR FORCE VETERAN NEIL CHAPMAN CLICK HERE

Come celebrate the launch of Sooner State Music, a bold new kind of music store—one built on community, creativity, and collaboration.

Healing for Harmony is a special come-and-go event designed to connect local Veterans through music and the arts. Hosted by Sooner State Music and the team at SPARK!, the gathering will feature:

🎸 Live Morse Code-inspired music demos
💥 Invitations to our FREE Creative Workshops
🤝 Opportunities to connect and collaborate with fellow Veterans
🧠 Mental health & Veteran service resources
🎶 Gear showcases, including custom-built Kaser Guitars

Whether you're a seasoned player, curious creator, or simply want to meet like-minded Veterans—you belong here. No experience or RSVP required. Just bring yourself.

”Sooner State Music is conveniently Located on the East Side of I35 in Moore, Oklahoma. The store is next door to the cigar shop,  Tobacco Exchange. Just look for the large electronic billboard sign and you won't miss us.”

Ditty Bops: Connecting the Dots

A Veterans’ Creative Workshop

In partnership with Oklahoma Contemporary Arts Center, SPARK! Creative Lab is honored to present the Ditty Bops: Connecting the Dots veterans' creative workshop. This free, two-hour workshop invites Veterans to experiment, explore, and collaborate in a creative space where curiosity leads the way. Using Morse code as both a literal and metaphorical tool, participants will play with rhythm, visual patterns, and language—discovering new ways to express ideas and build connections.

Together, we’ll:
🔹 Translate meaningful words or phrases into Morse code
🔹 Experiment with code-based percussion and rhythm
🔹 Explore visual design inspired by coded patterns
🔹 Encode patterns into language and spoken word

This is a space for creative problem-solving, shared discovery, and "safe creative failure"—because sometimes the best ideas come from the unexpected. No prior experience is needed, and all Veterans from all service branches and eras are welcome.

Led by experienced artists and facilitators, this workshop is designed as a collaborative exchange—we share what we know, we listen to what you bring, and together, we explore. Participants may also have the opportunity to contribute to the broader Ditty Bops: The Art of Listening project, including live performances and exhibitions.

Join us for an engaging and low-pressure creative experience—whether you come to experiment, connect, or just try something new.

🎟 Reserve your free ticket here: https://my.oklahomacontemporary.org/ditty-bops-workshop