For Incarcerated Artists 

Redemption is the 

Mother of Invention


A series of video interviews with current and formerly incarcerated artists discussing their work and the drive to create at all odds.


In collaboration with Escaping Time

Karen Thomas

Surrounded by grey walls, fabric artist Karen Thomas determined to create the beauty she yearned for during her two plus decades of incarceration.

Michael Tenneson

Musician and painter Michael Tenneson ponders the transformative power of affirmation inside, and outside of prison in the United States.

James Meyer

James Meyer uses his sculptures to challenge our understanding of what it means to be free.

Scott Arends

During his time in prison, making art was more than a way to pass the time. For painter Scott Arends, it was a means of survival.

Jairo Pastoressa

During his time locked up on Rikers Island, Jairo Pastoressa used painting as a way of communicating with the outside world.

Using Format