Tues Jan 14 * 7pm * $5 donation encouraged for the space * RSVP
Time and time again, we hear just how much it means to the incarcerated artists in our network to know that folks on the outside are seeing, appreciating, and being impacted by their artwork. The feedback the artists receive brings them hope and validation, helps them to feel less alone, and inspires them to keep creating. We want all of the artists who've entrusted their work to JAC to know that they matter, so we hope that you'll join us for ArtLinks, an evening of letter writing. We'll view new works by several artists and share our reactions, reflections, and feedback with them by mail.
Please RSVP if you plan to attend, as we really need an accurate headcount. Refreshments will be provided. We ask that you consider bringing a $5 contribution for our friends at Rhizome DC, as they have generously offered the use of their space to us for the evening.
The responses we receive from artists after ArtLinks events are heartfelt:
“I loved receiving the letters about my work and the impressions they had on people. So much of the art in prison is about portraits, photo realism and the like. Because my work is, well, more impressionistic it doesn’t always receive recognition in here from others. Looking at the [JAC description] at the bottom of the letter I received — “a unique voice” — I think that succinctly captures my hope as an artist and my own goals when creating art. To create something of maybe mundane, depressing things and hopefully get a person to see it differently. To think of things in a different way. To see us prisoners beyond the crimes we committed.” - Brian
“Thank you so much for your time and support. I don’t just say this from a personal standpoint but on behalf of all of the inmate artists I know and do not know. The time you dedicate will have effects down the path of time. Those actions will lead to some big changes in personal lives as well as in our communities. Thank you for [the letter from the volunteer]. Every word is treasured.” - Conor
“[Dear JAC volunteer], Thank you for writing me a letter and drawing a picture. I love it. Your letter made me feel validated because for the last years since I’ve been drawing the people that inspire me and have had an impact on my life growing up, the people in here aren’t really interested in buying portraits of S. Dali or Alfred Hitchcock … and it is starting to make me feel bad about it. So thank you a million times over.” - Chad, artist
