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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.

Over the past several decades I have painted and gifted 11,000 landscapes to needy causes, individuals, and created educational projects. In recent months our team orchestrated an event at a private school in Baja, Mexico. Seventy four paintings were gifted to the senior students, who performed remarkable deeds.

Giving back to strangers is a wonderful message to share. 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.

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These stories arrive by mail.

Every month, a physical envelope arrives at your door, postmarked from San Quentin Village, California. Inside, you will find original artwork, writing, and recipes from real contributors, along with a personal letter from me, Diane Kahn, founder of Humans of San Quentin, about the people who made them. You read it. You keep it.

Every piece comes from someone serving a sentence. Every piece reminds you they are so much more than that.

📬 Join the Mail Club

One Comment

  • Greg says:

    That painting of the pond and cottages surrounding it is really good. It’s very thought provoking, which is really what art is all about isn’t it? The whispy trees, the birds in flight, the muted quality of the light all seem to contribute to the mystery. And the background. I can imagine the background as a distant sea, or the abyss of a very large sky depending on how I view it. It’s an enjoyable piece of art to just spend some time viewing… you have talent!

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