"Carla" - Brandon Aguayo

The artist is currently incarcerated in New York. He specializes in detailed portraits and realistic drawings.

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.

8" x 11" | Color pencils

My name is Brandon Aguayo and I am 28 years old. I grew up in Marlboro, New Jersey and would consider myself self-taught. I have been drawing ever since I can walk and have stuck with it ever since. I am very grateful to be blessed with a gift from God. Art means the world to me and has became a lifestyle for me. There is not a day that goes by where I don’t do some form of art. Whether it is a sketch or finished piece, my heart is in it. There is no other feeling in the world that can replace the escape of creating. Unfortunately, at the age of 19, I was arrested because of a mistake that I made. I have been incarcerated ever since. Throughout my incarceration, I have grown so much as an artist. I learned how to oil paint as well as other various medias. Thanks to a supportive family by my side, they have contributed to my growth as an artist by sending me art boos that I am able to study and apply what I learnt. The beautiful thing about being an artist is that we are continuously learning from one another, and it never ends. I have about 2 and a half years upon my release and I have big plans for my career as an artist. We are all human beings and we all make mistakes. I have learned so much from experience. There are not only bad people behind these walls. There is a lot of good hearted people and talented who deserve to show the world what they have to offer. I thank you Art for redemption for this opportunity and hope you enjoy the art!.