Exhibit showcases Wabash Valley inmate artwork

Submitted Photos

On  Friday,  November  13  from  6:30  –  10pm,  Rhythms  by  Stacey,  in  downtown Greenfield ,  will  host  the  opening  night  reception  for  the  4th  Annual  “Unchained  Art”  Exhibit.    
 
This  exhibit,  now  in  its  fourth  year,  showcases  artwork  created  by  individuals  currently  incarcerated  in  Indiana  Prisons.    Along  with  Wabash  Valley  Correctional  Facility,  we  welcome  back  Rockville  Correctional  Facility  (a  women’s  prison)  Putnamville  Correctional  facility,  and  Miami  Correctional  facility  to  the  show  this  year.  
 
Supporters  of  the  exhibit  believe  that  art  can  be  a  positive  and  creative  opportunity  for  inmates  at  theses  facilities,  a  rare  opportunity  to  focus  on  something  useful  and  productive.    These  opportunities  are  very  important  to  prepare  for  the  time  when  90%  of  these  individuals  will  again  be  part  of  mainstream  society.    Through  their  work,  they  are  able  to  give  something  back  as  artists.    An  eventual  successful  re-­‐entry  into  society  is  the  ultimate  goal,  for  both  the  inmates,  as  well  as  the  community.  
 
The  idea  for  the  project  comes  from  a  former  attorney  now  inmate  of  Wabash  Valley  Correctional  Facility.    When  asked  what  sparked  the  idea  for  an  art  contest  for  offenders,  he  stated,  “I  believe  that  my  imprisonment  has  a  purpose.  As  an  artist  myself,  I  know  how  cathartic  and  transformative  art  can  be.”  He  believes  this  project  is  a  way  to  inspire  and  channel  positive  energy  through  artistic  expression.  “Creating  something  meaningful  and  worthwhile  stimulates  the  mind  and  leads  to  positive  changes  in  behavior.”  
 
Mike  Miller,  recreation  director  at  the  Wabash  Valley  Correctional  Facility,  was  instrumental  in  bringing  this  idea  to  fruition  and  through  his  continued  support  we  are  able  to  provide  this  creative  outlet  for  the  prisoners  again  this  year.  
 
Because  of  the  nature  of  this  exhibit,  art  pieces  in  the  show  will  not  be  offered  for  sale,  no  inmate  will  profit  financially.    If  desired,  donations  may  be  made  to  purchase  much-­‐needed  art  supplies  for  the  inmates  to  continue  their  work.          
The  exhibit  can  be  viewed  from  November  13  –  December  18  from  8am  –  7pm
 M  –  F.      Visit  us  at  www.unchainedart.org  and  on  Facebook  and  Twitter  
The  organizer  for  this  show  is  Stacey  Poe,  Owner  of  Rhythms  by  Stacey.    For  any  questions  about  the  
exhibit,  including  potential  for  exhibition  at  other  venues,  please  contact  her  at  317-­‐627-­‐4750.