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
Jim “Fuzzy”, 65
We know anything coming from a prisoner is unheard of, society only ever hears of negatives, never positive, but some behind bars are capable of empathy, remorse and lifting up others from despair.
Alyce, 70
Man, for the next twenty years that idiot would periodically come out, naked as usual, asking if they looked like they were hanging. Worry wart! And they say women are vain.
Thomas’s Gallery
Artist Thomas, 52Incarcerated: 27 years Tell us when you first became interested in art? It's a really funny story, how I fell in love with art. When I was nine, my father had a friend who was a painter. At the time my family had just moved into...
Sean’s Gallery
Artist Sean, 34 At 17, I was transferred from juvenile hall to the county jail and held in isolation. The day after my 18th birthday I was moved into a dorm full of adult men. I was young and scared. I met two men who I would eventually be...
Raul’s Gallery
Artist Raul, 63Paper Coffee Painting How do I paint with coffee? Instead of paint with brushes, I use a paperclip to paint. Using the tip and slanting the paper clip sideways paint larger spaces. It is tedious work and requires patience and a...
Anthony R’s Gallery
Artist Anthony, 32My story is similar to a lot of people who know what it’s like to want more out of life, while struggling to become the best version of themselves. However, the road I traveled wasn’t paved with blue skies and flowers. I grew up...
Cedrick’s Gallery
Artist Cedrick, 38Creative Educational Damage If my original artwork could be summed up in three words, it's creative, educational and damage. They are also an acronym for my initials. When I put my art pieces together my goal is to stir...
Fabian’s Gallery
Artist Fabian, 43At 16, I was released from a hospital for depression, suicide attempt and substance abuse. My sister introduced me to art and I quickly fell in love with the POP art movement. I submitted to depression and drugs a year or so...
Mark’s Gallery
I was on the front lines moving incarcerated people into isolated housing when COVID hit us hard. Some of the guys I helped are no longer with us due to Covid. That makes me sad, yet, I honor their lives by staying strong and faithful to God, in Christ’s name. And gaining joy by giving back through my artwork.
Patrick “Jimmy’s” Gallery
My inspiration is a chaotic mix of my Native American culture and my love of all things Steampunk and Star wars.
Gregory’s Gallery
Artist Gregory, 46Incarcerated: 22 yearsHoused: San Quentin State Prison “And remember if you can be anything in this life… BE KIND!!!”