One of the finest assets within the Town of Andrews

On Friday, September 28th, I was honored with the opportunity to have my very first one person art show, under the auspices of the One Dozen Who Care organization. This had been a life long dream of mine since the time of my earliest memories.

The Friday art shows at ODWC interested me and I approached Executive Director Anne Woodford, asking how they decided who got to show and what the criteria were. After talking with Ms. Woodford and her administrative assistant, Alice Blanton, I asked to send ODWC photos of my work and they would decide. In late July or early August, I received notification that I was scheduled for September 28th. By the time that day arrived, I was a nervous wreck.

In the biographical sketch ODWC requested, I had referred to my instructors at Western Carolina University and others who had influenced me. The realization came to me that I was going to reflect on these individuals whatever the results of my show was. The pressure was building to a pressure cooker intensity. I would run down to ODWC and wring my hands and stress to them and their unwavering support and constructive commentary made it possible for me to stay focused. Without their kind words and very astute observations, I would have retreated to my tiny studio and probably painted a series of dark images.

For a painter, or any other member of the visual arts arena, the first person show is tantamount to a first recital on the real stage or that first professional ballet experience. It is where you prove to yourself, and the public, whether you are worthy of the title "artist." I have always told people I was a painter and it was up to them to decide if I was an artist.

What One Dozen Who Care provided, for this very insecure painter, was exactly what their goals state; Partnership and Leadership. Without their excellent professionalism and dedication, my dream would never have been realized. Ms. Woodford's drive and insistence for high standards coupled with a wealth of knowledge of a vast array of cultural diversities, provide a catalyst for inspiring others.

If I may use the aged cliche, the icing on the cake was, I also sold my very first painting as a direct result of partnership and leadership of the One Dozen Who Care, Inc.

I want to thank Executive Director Ann Miller Woodford and Administrative Assistant Alice Blanton for believing in me and enabling my lifelong dream to come true.

Warmest regards, Jerry L. Trull