"America Needs You"

The artist is currently incarcerated in Kentucky.

All original artworks are created by artists previously or currently incarcerated. They use whichever materials they have access to, and prove creative ingenuity beyond the norm. These original paintings and drawings are born in the heart of a prison cell, from the hands of an outsider artist to adorn the walls of your space. Each art piece is a one-of-a-kind that not only enhances your interior but also makes you actively participate in reforming the prison and criminal justice system.

The incarcerated artist receives 50% of the sales proceeds. The artists set their own prices based on the costs of materials (it can vary greatly from one facility to another), the time spent on the piece, their experience, and simply - what they think it’s worth. Alongside with offering a financial outlet, we aim to empower their confidence and reinstitute their status as human beings - not a number behind bars. For most, art is an escape, a path to self-discovery and healing. Through art, they can reconnect with society so the gap is not so unbridgeable when they get out. Through the sales, they can stay connected with their families, afford daily commissary items, pay societal debts, relieve the economic burden on their loved ones, and save up for the release date. So they have the financial means to get ahead of reinsertion and get a fair chance at that second chance.

16" x 20" | Oil paint on canvas

"My name is Robert Vance. I am currently housed at FCI Manchester. I’m a proud father of three beautiful girls. I’m from Louisville, Kentucky. I was sentenced to one hundred twenty months for drug charges at the age of thirty-three. I have been in federal prison for five years. I began this prison sentence at United States Penitentiary McCreary in Kentucky. I had not ever picked up a pencil for any other reason than to write a letter. When I was free, I did not stop to think about Art or have a desire to draw. When I came to prison and seen the other Artists drawing. I thought it was pretty amazing what some of the guys could do. I had a desire to draw portraits of my daughters. Maybe in some way I could stay relevant in their lives. A way I can show the love I have for them. I began my journey by reading books. Books about shadows, light, and techniques. Of course, much practice. I learned so much about drawing but also about Art. Most people think that drawing is Art and it is to an extent, but Art is much more than that. Art is about life in all its facets. I learned much about life through Art. I realized that life is about perception and observation. I create what I see, but I see through my Perception of Reality. Art has led me to read books about consciousness and how the human brain functions. Art has taught me self-discipline and patience. Art to me is a way to elevate my mind. An escape from the pain of being away from my daughters. Art to me is a way to bring joy to someone’s life. An expression of Love. A new perception….".

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