The Jesse Tree

2622 Market Street Galveston, Texas 77550

(409) 621-2455 Fax (409) 621-2531

Toll Free (877) 621-2455 Email jessetree@aol.com

"A shoot will come up from the stem of Jesse;

from his roots a branch will bear fruit." Isaiah 11:1

Harsh Reality Art Exhibit

The Harsh Reality Series is a set of 22 pen and ink sketches depicting various views on homelessness and poverty.

Artist: Tom Gibson

Photographer: John Morello

Fences

Christy’s Beachcomber Club stands high above the sand, on concrete and wood piers, empty and alone. The old rusting fence had sagged and fallen apart. It offered no resistance to those who sought the cover from the heat of the day, and the heavy dew of night. Now a new fence and stern signs kept the aimless and curious out.

A hundred yards behind this relic is a fast food restaurant. Early one morning I chose to ride my bicycle through the drive-up. I relished the idea of eating a breakfast sandwich on the beach. The main building was not yet open to pedestrians at that hour. To my amazement, service was refused because I did not have a motor in my vehicle. I pedaled away, frustrated and confused.

After some time, and thought, I realized that, this too, was a fence; an easy way to deal with the poor and homeless who were afoot and didn’t have access to a kitchen or food.

This art exhibit is prepared for loan to qualified organizations. For more information about shipping fees and ways to donate to the Jesse Tree, call (409) 621-2455 or if you live out of the Galveston, Texas (409) area code, call toll free (877) 621-2455.