"Never give up" - Travis Ray Hypes

The artist is currently incarcerated in Ohio. He specializes in doodles.

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.

4.25" x 6.75" | Pen on paper

My name is Travis Hypes. I am 28 years old. I was born in Springfield, OH to Sarah and Randy Hypes in 1992. I have always loved art ever since I knew people could paint and tattoo. I remember the first time that I wanted to draw - it was when I saw my mother drawing Looney Tunes on my little brother’s wall when we moved to South Charleston, OH. After that, I would get into trouble all the time for drawing. When I got older, I realized that I wanted to be an artist because most of my friends drew, but most importantly, my mother was a very good artist and I wanted to be like her. I wanted to draw as good as she did. When times were rough, I had my mom and my art. To me, art is everything. Because of my beautiful mother, without art I wouldn’t be as good of a man as I am today. When I am sad, mad, or just can’t handle my day, I draw cards or I try to draw a person or thing I’ve never drawn. My goal for my art is to be able to express how I feel and be what others can relate to! Art has always been my way to get away in my own world and be happy. Art expands your mind, like a book you read! So if you wonder what pushes me to overcome obstacles in life, it’s my art being shown to the world so others can find a way to cope with their way of life..

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