Prison art exhibit reflects personal growth, change

By Rosemary Metz

Daily Arts Writer

Incarcerated men and women in Michigan prisons have discovered artistic ways to escape the bleakness of daily life. Artwork by these prisoners will be on display this month at Rackham Galleries through the efforts of Prof. Buzz Alexander.

The Prison Arts project has grown since its inception in 1990. The prison population has grown as well. Alexander said the number of prisons in Michigan jails "has quadrupled. Prisons are where people with no economic resources are being sent - especially persons of color and women."

New sentencing laws, such as the "third strike," have been instrumental in filling prison cells with minor offenders. Within this burgeoning and diverse population are artistic voices that yearn to be heard. Alexander and his staff, including fellow professors and assistant curators Pilar Anadon, Janie Paul and Ann Savageau, have listened for those voices and offer a venue for their expression with the current exhibit.

The prisoners work in all media, some of which is highly unique. Alexander said these works included a leather "Last Supper," as well as pieces rendered in instant coffee granules or Colgate Tooth Whitener. Prisoners also use more conventional materials such as acrylic, watercolor, pencil and pen. Each artist supplies their own materials.

Some of the types of pieces in the show include portraits, landscapes, abstract art, still life and magazine photo collages. Alexander notes that some of the most repeated themes are African heritage and Native American subjects.

While providing space for this self expression, Alexander and Anadon take pride in their own personal achievements. Anadon, in her work with women at facilities in Coldwater and Plymouth, describes how this artistic and personal interaction has helped her to become more open and willing to express herself. Anadon has seen the transformations that occur when female inmates feel safe enough to express themselves. She says they become free to do "amazing stuff" artistically.

Despite the hardship of prison life, the sameness and bleak conditions, Alexander sees the prisoners' works as an attempt at healing and growth for themselves. Never denying individual responsibility for past crimes, Alexander said, "everybody has a chance to change." The 100 works of art in this display demonstrate that willingness and effort.