In October 2017 California’s Sonoma/Napa region was rocked by devastating wildfires that consumed 9000 structures, leaving thousands homeless. When flames burned our friend’s homes and neighborhoods down to their foundations, I felt called to do something creative. As a former firefighter, I was stunned by the overwhelming response from departments who came from far away to provide mutual aid. Over the course of several mornings I hung out on a curb near the fairgrounds in Santa Rosa working on a series project, photographing the door panels of as many different fire trucks as I could while the congregation of men and women came and went from their daily fire line assignments. Ultimately I amassing a collection of images that represents nearly half of the more than 500 different fire agencies that came from across the Western United States. The result is a composite piece called “Mutual Aid”. Each of the tiles represents a small thank you to the communities who sent their bravest men and women in our time of need. Many of the gold door logos show a glimpse into the unique local culture, industry and agriculture of the truck’s place of origin. By sending mutual aid, we exhibit a level of support for humankind that transcends the divisions in today’s society. I see an underlying optimism here in that during a disaster we put aside our ideologies and show up to help one another. “Mutual Aid” is available in two versions; as a fine art print and as a poster: The Fine Art piece, which represents 192 individual fire departments is printed directly onto aluminum with a ready-to-hang gallery float backing. It is available in four sizes, 15x20, 18x24, 24x32” and 36x48”. The “Mutual Aid” poster, ($39.95, now in-stock and shipping) depicts 176 different fire departments, expressing our gratitude toward first responders, while listing the names of the individual fires in Sonoma and Napa. The poster, rolled in a tube, can be shipped anywhere in the US. The piece is on 100# glossy paper and printed right here in Sonoma County. A portion of proceeds from “Mutual Aid” will be donated to local non-profit organizations that are working to support children and families affected by the fires. To view pricing and purchase a print online click “Add To Cart” while viewing either image in the gallery. Mail orders can be sent to the address below. Custom orders will be considered. photo@jerrydodrill.com 707-379-8100 9am-5pm PST PO Box 244, Bodega, CA 94922-0244 -Jerry Dodrill