Inside Artists

During our conversations with people on the inside, callers sometimes share with us ways they are able to cope with the trauma, stress, and tragedy they face everyday. One such way is through artistic expression. Drawing, making music, writing poetry and other forms of creation have helped give our callers solace, power, and a voice; things that incarceration tried to take away from them.

We are excited to now share some of these works of art, created by artists on the inside, with you. But while we are very grateful to be able to spread their creations to a wider audience, we also cannot wait for the day that all people will draw, sing, write, create and live freely, outside of the walls of jails and prisons. Please note: all artists retain copyright for their work. You may link to this page but do not distribute their work elsewhere.

Poetry

THE POETRY OF STEVENS JEAN

Came from poverty, in the mountains of Haiti, now incarcerated in the U.S. Growing up, I was taught love, respect, and loyalty. Writing my story through poetry.

THE POETRY OF JASON BROWN

Poems titled “Without”, “Many Can’t Breathe” and more