"Countless heroes emerged from the chaos of Sept. 11, and by selflessly sharing his story, Van Why must be counted among their number."— David C. Nichlos, The Los Angeles Times
I lived in New York City for 26 years; until moving to Pennsylvania in 2003. That move was prompted by being an eyewitness to, and a survivor of, the attack on the World Trade Center on 9/11. Since that life altering day, I have feel a responsibility to share my story of 9/11. Using spoken and written words and the visual arts to honor those who died that day and to help assure we, as a country, never forget.
I first wrote a one-man play, “That Day In September,” which I performed in L.A. and Off Broadway in New York. I then adapted it into a self-published memoir, also titled “That Day In September.”
I’ve begun expressing my emotions of 9/11, and its aftermath, in my abstract paintings.
But sharing my story publicly is still the most rewarding ways of reaching others; especially students. Their respect and genuine desire to know more about the day that has shaped the world they are growing up in is inspiring.
