Red Emma’s

The workshops began in 2022, and will begin their fourth workshop series this fall. The exhibition includes pieces created during these workshops, which were run in an open studio format to create an environment for independent creativity, where the artists could express themselves authentically.

The exhibition is a visual expression of the hope, strength, transformation, and dreams of individuals impacted by incarceration. It simultaneously speaks to the disproportionate impact of incarcerator on women of color. “Women of color are significantly overrepresented in the criminal justice system. Black women represent 30% of all incarcerated women in the U.S., although they represent 13% of the female population generally. Hispanic women represent 16% of incarcerated women, although they make up only 11% of all women in the U.S.” (ACLU)

All supplies needed for creating and framing the artwork were donated. The permitted supplies were then brought into the prison, adhering to the strict guidelines of the prison. The creativity and resourcefulness utilized in the creation of the works speak directly to the unwavering resilience and steadfast hope of this group of artists. Given the unique circumstances of incarceration, and to protect the identity of the artists, all pieces are intentionally anonymous and will not be available for sale.

Click here to support the project: https://www.gofundme.com/f/the-prison-art-program