FOUNDER • ARTIST • PEER SUPPORTER

JAY LEE BYRD

I’m Jay Lee Byrd, founder and president of Art Gossip. I created Art Gossip from the belief that art can give us somewhere to put the things that are hard to say out loud. My own experiences with recovery, creativity, and peer support shaped a space where people can show up exactly as they are—no artistic experience required. Through creative recovery groups, workbooks, and community connection, I hope to help people turn what they’re carrying into something they can see, explore, and move through.

MY STORY

VALERIE J. CAVE

Director & Secretary

Valerie is a constant source of support and inspiration for Art Gossip. She has been there through every idea, challenge, change, and new direction—helping keep things grounded and under control when there are a million things happening at once. Her steady presence, encouragement, and belief in Art Gossip help keep the organization moving forward.

CINDY THOMPSON

Director & Treasurer

Cindy is one of the people who helps hold Art Gossip together. As Director and Treasurer, she brings stability, trust, and a level head to the organization. She has a way of keeping things from getting out of control while still making room for creativity, growth, and big ideas. Her support and reliability make her an important part of Art Gossip.

TRACI McMURTRY

Director & Peer Support

Traci brings mentorship to another level. She is always ready to listen to the next idea, encourage the next possibility, and help turn inspiration into something real. Her guidance, enthusiasm, and willingness to think forward make her an important voice as Art Gossip continues to grow.