Telly Award Nomination

Bess Auer is a sculptor who uses her art to bring communities together. By exploring relevant themes, like mental health, entrepreneurship, and opportunity through whimsical, talked-about sculptures, Bess shines a spotlight on the things that connect us as a community and provides a roadmap for those who might be struggling.

This year, Bess added a video series, interviewing community leaders, business persons, influencers, and sports figures to her artwork. The videos promoted her gallery shows while also discussing serious issues. The video series and the art exhibition went toward raising money for Second Harvest Food Bank, which serves 300,000 meals daily to Central Florida residents who are currently experiencing hunger.

Please view the series below.

Number of Videos in Series: 5

Total Running Time of Series: 55 mins, 8 seconds

Overcoming: Veteran Broadcaster Secily Wilson

When veteran broadcaster Secily Wilson suffered a stroke live on air, her world came crumbling down. But not even that could keep her down.

Running time: 10:11

Growing Bolder: Veteran Radio Show Host Bill Shafer

Bill Shafer fights ageism and discusses how to make the rest of your life the best of your life.

Running time: 11:10

Hard Work: Entrepreneur Michelle Welch

From “maid” to “made”, Michelle Welch shows how hard work pays off.

Running time: 10:24

Finding Joy: Business Owner Anthony Bencomo

After losing a child, Anthony “Biggie” Bencomo has to find his way to joy again, providing a roadmap for others to follow.

Running time: 11:23

Community: CEO & President Derrick Chubbs

Second Harvest Food Bank’s Derrick Chubbs explains why community is essential and how feeding the least of us brings out the best in us.

Running time: 12:44