The Art of Perseverance

This December, Julian Campbell will proudly graduate from the Arwood Malcolm Educational Center (AMEC), Palmetto Campus’s on-campus school, with his high school diploma. His next dream? To pursue a degree in graphic design and attend the Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD).

“My favorite school subject has always been art,” Julian shared. “I’ve been drawing since I was three years old. I love doodling and creating, that’s why I want to go to SCAD. They have such a strong art program, and it would be an amazing opportunity for me.”

In high school, Julian found belonging and inspiration in the Art Club. “It was my favorite class because not only did I fit in with everyone, but I also got to create comics and drawings of different people. I loved sharing what I thought was beautiful with others.”

Although SCAD hasn’t offered him a scholarship yet, Julian is determined to reach his goal. “I’ve received scholarships from other colleges,” he said. “Right now, I’m looking into attending Georgia Southern to complete my core studies, then transferring to SCAD’s Atlanta campus once I can get funding. I plan to work hard to make it happen.”

Julian’s passion for creativity extends far beyond the classroom. “My favorite hobby is drawing because I love putting my ideas on paper,” he said. “I also enjoy creative writing, poetry, storytelling, and I love soccer, especially being the goalie. I like protecting the goal at all costs.”

In addition to his studies, Julian also works at a local grocery store bagging groceries, a job he takes great pride in. “I like making my own money,” he shared with a smile. “It feels good to work hard and earn it myself.”

Julian has been a resident of our DAC program for the past three years, where he has experienced both support and growth. “My favorite memory here was last Christmas,” he recalled with a smile. “We all came together, unwrapped presents, and I got an iPad. It meant a lot to me.”

During his time with us, Julian has learned valuable lessons about vulnerability, community, and faith. “I’ve learned to open up about my emotions,” he said. “As a kid, I used to keep my feelings to myself, but being here taught me to share how I feel, whether I’m sad or happy. The Staff are my family. Sometimes they help me, sometimes they challenge me, but I love them.”

Julian also shared how his faith has deepened during his time at GBCH&FM. “My relationship with God has grown tremendously since I came here,” he said. “I always wanted someone by my side through thick and thin. Staff members have helped that come true because they’ve helped me read the Bible more and learn that God is always with me no matter what.”

During his interview, Julian offered encouragement for future residents of the program. “I believe anyone who comes here might have a troubled past,” he said, “but with a little help, and with caring staff and the education they provide, you can make it.”

He reflected on his own journey as an artist: “I used to hide my drawings because I feared what people would think. But whenever I’ve shared them, people love them. So, I’ve learned to put my insecurities aside and accept that maybe I really am a talented artist.”

From drawing stick figures as a toddler to creating portraits that captivate others today, Julian continues to grow in his gift. “When I was three, I’d always ask my mom for paper,” he remembered. “I’d draw little stick figures and characters based on people I knew or imagined. Over time, those stick figures became bigger, more detailed characters and now, they’re something people enjoy. I want my art to appeal to everyone, and so far, it’s been happening.”

To Julian, art is far more than skill or expression, it’s a calling. “Art is subjective,” he said thoughtfully. “What one person sees as art, another might not. But to me, art is whatever gift God gave you to share with others.”

Join us in praying for Julian as he pursues his dream of becoming a visual artist and that his relationship with Jesus continues to grow. May he always remember to use his talents to make a positive impact on the world.