Here are some links to a few of my favorite people, all of them artists in diverse media. What they have in common is the soulful quality they bring to their work. Check ‘em out!

Erik Esckilsen: A brilliant writer who worked his way up from his rural, hardscrabble roots. Well, actually he grew up in a South Burlington condo, in Vermont’s version of suburbia, and the only hardscrabble he faced was struggling to get a triple-word score. Anyway, Erik’s a beautiful guy, a good friend and a writer who captivates and transports his readers. erikeesckilsen.com

Richard Berlin: Richard’s award-winning poetry moves me, shakes me and makes me feel better about being a human being. As a full-time job he practices psychiatry but, once a week, he pauses to create gorgeous pages of imagery and meaning. His poetry often, though not exclusively, explores the medical world in which he dwells. Richard also happens to be my step-brother but, I promise, this blurb is not driven by nepotism - he’s just really that good! richardmberlin.com

Paul Asbell: With all due respect to the awesome Trey Anastasio, Paul is widely recognized as Vermont’s finest guitarist. A giant influence on a generation of local musicians, he is a virtuoso in nearly every style of music, though I think he would say his heart and soul lives in the blues. Buy his records, and if you ever have the opportunity to hear Paul perform live - run don’t walk. paulasbell.com

Michael Jewell: A native Vermonter, Michael is a painter and a poet, sometimes combining the two in amazing word-strewn canvasses. His vision moves me with its spiritual generosity and unrestrained beauty. If you purchase a Jewell painting, it will surely fill your home with good mojo for as long as it hangs! michaeldavidjewell.com