"Where beauty lies" - Chauncy Jewett

The artist is currently incarcerated in Iowa. He specializes in black & white 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.

7.5" x 8.5" | Pencil on cardboard paper

My name is Chauncy Jewett. I’m 22 years old and have been in prison since I was 17 years old. Since being in prison I have done a lot of hole time being young and dumb. But, for the most part, any status is allowed at least a security pen and paper. Writing as well as drawing has always gotten me through some of my worst times. That is my escape. I can completely immerse myself in my work and forget about anything else around me for hours upon hours. In my current status, I am three years into a long-term Restrictive Housing program where we are locked down 24 hours a day, 3 showers a week, and one hour in a recreation cage 5 days a week. So, even though we are not allowed a pencil I do what I can to pursue my passion. I appreciate everything about my art even though I am my biggest critic. I like how it gives the rest of us back here something new to look at and talk about. I like how I can speak or tell a story without using words. I also like how I can give a person in the free world a small look into mine. .

/