Federal prisons are often hidden from view, forgotten about. How can art help us build connections and reduce isolation?

A.R.T. & Justice has an ongoing partnership with a local high school art class, called Art Activism. Students taking Art Activism learn about a different social justice topic each year while completing a large painted canvas that is later showcased in an art gallery. Since 2023, participating students receive a canvas started by an incarcerated artist. These collaborative paintings provide opportunities to break down the walls, inspire young artists, and provide artists in prison opportunities to share their talent with the world.

In speaking to incarcerated artists about the benefits of this project, we’ve heard that they hope the participating students continue to nourish their creativity and compassion, take social justice seriously, and be the leaders that the world needs.