During the month of September, the Hite Art Institute at the University of Louisville will offer a unique opportunity to view an exhibition of art created by inmates who are incarcerated at prisons across the Commonwealth. BARS TO WALLS: INMATE ART EXPRESSIONS opens August 16 and runs through September 25 at the institute on 2301 S. Third St. The exhibit offers more than 100 works by 69 inmates from 9 state-run facilities. From paintings to sculptures, fiber art to wood carvings, visitors will be amazed at how much art can be created out of the limited materials available to these artists behind bars.
"Art provides an outlet and a way to connect with my humanity beyond these bars," said Hal Cobb, 54, who is serving time for murder. Cobb and others use whatever materials they can find: popsickle sticks, dryer lint, paper, etc. to create works that evolk a strong emotional response. While other corrections departments in other states have allowed inmates to exhibit their work, the opportunity to do so here in Kentucky is a huge leap forward in the restorative justice concept. It wasn't that long ago that prison officials denied an inmates right to profit from his/her own creative endeavors.
So, I commend LaDonna Thompson, Commissioner of the State of Kentucky Department of Corrections for not only allowing this exhibit, but also for allowing the inmate-artists to receive the proceeds from the sale of their work. Ms. Thompson has taken a strong, and in some quarters an unpopular, stance here. Good for her!
If you go: Admission is free. More Information: 502.852.4483
