Brady has been working so hard towards his dream of writing and publishing a book of poetry. That dream is finally coming together, and we are pleased to announce plans to self-publish his book by Thanksgiving (should be an interesting journey). What a great holiday present! A portion of the proceeds will go to Brady's school, BridgeHaven Academy, and Peace of Heart Home.
But don't just take our word for it.
(Drum roll, please!)
Now, for Brady’s exciting announcement in his own words ...
Feeling really hopeful about my poetry book. I don't know when it will be completed just yet. My friend Gentry will be doing the artwork for the new book.
Mom wants you to expand on Gentry's paintings and why you want her to do the paintings.
I think that it just is very important to use someone who is friends with me and understands the autism world. To create a book made by non verbal people is favorable.
What do you see in her artwork?
Dear vibes.Gentry paints with her heart and emotions.I believe my book shows just that as well.She is kind so she is the perfect choice.
Why do you think Gentry paints?
The same reason I write poems. We can't speak so we need a way to express ourselves.
I've noticed sometimes your poems are sad or dark, do you think Gentry creates paintings when she is struggling with something too?
Yes. It's a form of emotion. It's not good all the time. There is completeness in just knowing.
What do you think Gentry gets out of painting?
I think she really just likes to do it.
About Gentry
Gentry is an abstract artist who found her voice through typing at age 18. Now 24, she resides at Peace of Heart Home in Palm Valley, Florida.
Gentry’s art is a menagerie of vibrant colors, sometimes muted and serene, and other times with bold brushstrokes that evoke an emotional response. Her art reveals her emotions, experience, and interpretation of life. Gentry often expresses a desire to use her art to raise funds to help her non-verbal peers have access to typing as a form of communication.
Gentry's work has been featured in Arbus magazine and the Autism File and has been on public display at Jacksonville's 5 Points Theatre, the Jacksonville Downtown Public Library, Gallery 725, and fine restaurants in Atlantic Beach, Florida.
Title- Echo
Dreaming for my voice to echo down my books pages.
I want my voice to be heard.
Everyone gets to see my life's open stages.
Strangers are welcome to spend some time.
My book is an example of a nonverbal paradigm.
Forbid I forget my memories i'll have my own personal
treasury.