"Manga queen" - Cortez Dixon

The artist is currently incarcerated in Illinois. He specializes in anime and cartoon Japanese characters.

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.

9" x 12" | Color pencils on thick glossy paper

My name is Cortez Dixon. I’m 29 years young and currently incarcerated in the Illinois Department of Corrections. I was sentenced to 26 years at 85% which I still have 12 years to serve, all over a simple mistake, which I have learned my lesson from. Art is very important to me. I’ve been drawing since I could use a pencil. My mom, dad, and uncle are artists as well. Art has always been a part of my life. I still remember my uncle teaching me how to sketch before I started adding details to whatever I’m drawing. I remember all of the colorful drawings my mom used to draw me when she was incarcerated during my teenage years. So, yeah, Art is very important to me and what it means to me is Love, hope, strength. It’s what I try to showcase through my art. When it comes to art I love realism, fantasy, and anime. I hope one day I can give back to the otaku community. .

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