by Dale Russell
Since 2009, art has flowed from behind prison walls. It has been our pleasure to digitize and document over 3000 original pieces. The parade of talent has always been an invitation to see a bit deeper into each creation, maybe even experience what the artist intended, which can be his or her inspiration. Many times, the story reveals the artist’s mind had traveled far beyond their present confines. There is an open invitation to travel with them.
We also repeatedly hear that the art group serves as a peaceful retreat, a safe place and a respite from prison culture just outside in the hallway. It is a gift to us that the artist might share their thoughts about all the above and send thanks for the unique opportunity you provide as you assist us with all the various projects.
Here’s one of those invitations to explore the mind of an artist. Inmate Richard Reeves sets the record for art creations at 164 in 11 years. Unfortunately, health challenges plagued him his whole prison life. He passed away earlier this year. He and his unique style will be missed, but we have our permanent records of his accomplishments.
Puzzled
This piece came to me one night when I was watching a Nat Geo program. There was this young bear standing in the middle of a small stream trying to figure out which way he should jump to catch the salmon. He would jump one way, then another and still never came up with his meal. In over 5 minutes, he did not stop trying. As I watched this, I wondered what would his face look like as an art piece? I wanted to just bring a smile to someone’s face, as it does to mine.
Bob the Cat
As I first laid out this piece, I wanted to do something fast and fun. As soon as I started laying it down, the background seemed to change. I almost gave up. I wanted to get the lights and the darks just right to have a marbled look. This is sometimes difficult to do with the limited supplies I have to work with. It challenges me to be very creative. I was able to make the cat jump off the page. Now, this motivates me to take another step towards doing even more wildlife.
Please remember – as always, 100% of the sale of original art goes directly to Otino Waa Children’s Village, Uganda.
All the prison artists depend on our help to:
- Provide quality art supplies. Each group has an annual budget of $750. These funds come from generous donors who understand the purpose and need.
- Promote the art to the general public via our web store, blog posts, local displays or events. Your art purchase encourages the artist as you become the ambassador for the project, re-telling the story as it hangs in your home.
- learn more about the gifts and talents of these men and women and how it changes us, just as it has already changed them.
Take one more look at the art HERE
Be the encourager by assisting with art supplies HERE