Without change, there is no trace of creativity, innovation, or enticement for growth. Those ambitious individuals who galvanize transformation have a greater chance to control the change that is inexplicably inescapable. Heroic artists do not just reflect our past and present, they help to shape the future.
Intellectual curiosity stimulates a deep, persistent ‘need to know’ essence that prompts one to ask questions. The artwork beautifully cultivated by incarcerated people is designed to do just that. In fact, it was from inception that these ingenious conceptions left me yearning to know every thought that crept into the artists’ prolific minds. These individuals strive for his or her audience to question their speculations about the authenticity of our legal system and become acquainted with the humanity and fallibility of the criminal justice system in our nation.
It is an artist’s job to be reactive and provocative, and this fiery energy is found in individuals when they are implored to better our society as a result of injustices they have faced.
It is the audience’s role to allow the work to spur them into action as well as contemplation. These artists’ creations unearthed my newly adopted philosophy concerning my impact on our society.
Yes, I am a product of society; but the power to shape and transform it resides within me.
