Please enjoy the artwork of individuals we have interviewed while incarcerated. Their palate provides insight into the struggles incarcerated people face while revealing their life behind the bars. The art within this gallery gives our artists an outlet to express their thoughts, feelings, pains and dreams in a positive way that may not be possible in any other form. The art you see here is their outlet. They use seven elements to create: line, color, value, shape, form, space, and texture. We hope their work will expand your knowledge, understanding and appreciation surrounding the difficulties incarcerated individuals endure.
Featured Artist
Eric’s Gallery
A nineteenth century American painter once observed that the purpose of art is not to teach, but to evoke an emotion. I hope the works that I present to the world today evoke emotions and express who I am today. It is liberating to be seen in my authenticity.
Ben’s Gallery
Artist Ben
Kit’s Gallery
Thank you Lord for the wisdom of the fox; had I continued on the destructive path of an angry wolf, I would have never discovered the narrow path which leads me home – FREEDOM!!! I was found suitable for parole on July 8, 2022.
Shelley’s Gallery
I hope I inspire love, hope, joy and peace.
Robert’s Gallery
What’s my motivation? Someday I’ll be out there sitting on the hood of a 64 watching a beautiful sunset…… right after I learn how to drive.
George’s Gallery
Today at 76, I have seen enough darkness. I know this darkness can only be dissipated by the light of truth and love.
Paul’s Gallery
Since I do not have the benefit of viewing things in the real world then painting them, I rely on my imagination.
Jorge’s Gallery
Art is a perfect way for those of us incarcerated to reach out to society and show we’re more than just criminals.
Mark’s Gallery
My life in art began after a life-threatening illness when I was five years old. Since that time art has become a manner through which I express thoughts, feelings and perceptions to share with others. I enjoy creating things that represent aspects of our humanity. Sometimes we forget our higher selves. Sometimes we forget the inner beauty we carry within, burying it under layers of conditioned reactions. So I offer the reminder with Illuminations and Wisdom In Blue.
Erick’s Gallery
I don’t want to live in the shadow of the crime that I committed. I know I have the capacity to change because I’m putting in the work to learn about myself.
Darwin’s Gallery
I find art itself to be inspiring and self-expressive; magical in such a way as to draw or paint myself into any imaginary setting… A quiet peaceful place to breathe, to meditate, to be still… to marvel at the reflection given by the water. To watch the sunset and sunrise.