The disability Jerry was born with has little, if any, influence on the creative and expressive aspects of his artistry. It does require mention, however, because of the major role it plays in defining the technique and style, as well as the content of his art. Jerry works in broad, sweeping strokes, layering first and then blending colors to create dreamscape images with depth and motion.

Art is a kind of personal salvation for Jerry, who has spent most of his adult life in communal living environments where personal career opportunity often appears out of reach. When he began painting in 1980, Jerry found not only a meaningful hobby, but also a much-needed emotional release from the mounting frustration of limited choices and an uncooperative body. Painting, according to Jerry, was a significant remedy, providing self esteem and a healthy - - albeit a sometimes darkly intense - - means of expression.

Though largely a self-styled painter, Jerry studied under Hazel King at the Centennial Park Art Center in Nashville, Tennessee. With the encouragement, instruction, and assistance of a few gifted art hobbyists on staff at his support agency (Progress, Inc.), Jerry was able to adapt his materials to accommodate his disability. Jerry began producing a body of work in both water-color and acrylic. He has since developed a surreal, abstract style in which color and shape randomly collide to purposefully express raw, murky emotion as well as joyous freedom and release.