“The First 50”, created by Three Oaks, Michigan artist Jody Elle, is a retrospective, multi-media depiction of the first 50 years in the life of a contemporary American woman. Although the artist freely shared the memento sources of her own life, the work is widely accessible to all baby boomers, especially women. Composed on a hardwood door of 15 panels, this fully integrated work illuminates world and personal events from 1955 until 2005. At the same time, “The First 50” door opens up on the promise of the next 50 years and the emerging legacy of the American baby boom generation.

In an era of “cool”, “ironic” post modern works that ask (and give) little of the audience, “The First 50” works on many levels depending on the viewer’s position in life. For the casual observer it can be a humorous, attractive stroll through a busy boomer landscape. For the boomer woman standing on the threshold of her life’s next phase, the work is moving, nostalgic and ultimately transformational. “The First 50” is a deeply personal yet universal montage created by a courageous American artist.

With a Bachelor’s Degree in Women’s Studies from Indiana University, Jody Elle is emerging as a unique, compassionate voice about issues confronting American women. She lives in Three Oaks, Michigan, enjoys her family (including 5 dogs) and loves to read and travel, drawing on the experiences of hundreds of women over the years. From the performing arts to fine art such as “The First 50” she brings deep sensitivity and insight to all her artistic endeavors. April 2007