New Art Exhibit Features Work by People Incarcerated in New York Prisons
Albany Public Library (APL) is hosting a new art exhibit featuring works created by people currently incarcerated in New York State prisons. Prisoners’ Legal Services of New York (PLS) developed “Untitled: Art from Behind Bars” to showcase the creativity of the featured artists and provide vivid testimony to the humanity of those who will someday return home and become members of society.
The free exhibit is family-friendly and will be open for public viewings through the end of December. Please see the APL events calendar for a full list of viewing hours.
“Untitled: Art from Behind Bars” features 42 pieces by 28 artists. Incarcerated individuals from 18 correctional facilities across New York State are represented in the art show, including Attica, Auburn, Elmira, Franklin, Sullivan, Fishkill, and Sing Sing. The works vary in size and theme, and were created with pen, pencil, and other approved materials. The artwork is appropriate for all ages to view, and is not for sale.
“By sharing the artwork of incarcerated people, we hope to educate the public, highlight the humanity of those who are incarcerated, and recruit attorneys to take cases pro bono, thus increasing access to justice for indigent incarcerated persons across New York State,” said Prisoners’ Legal Services of New York Pro Bono Director Mary Cipriano-Walter.
“PLS is thrilled to partner with the Albany Public Library to share with our community the creativity and talent of individuals currently incarcerated in NYS prisons. This display of beautiful and heartfelt artwork demonstrates that people are redeemable, and they are much more than the worst thing they have ever done,” said PLS Executive Director Karen Murtagh.
Prisoners’ Legal Services of New York was founded in 1976 to provide high quality, effective legal representation and assistance to indigent prisoners, help them secure their civil and human rights, and advocate for more humane prisons and for a more humane criminal justice system. The organization provides incarcerated individuals with assistance regarding legal representation, family matters, mental and physical health, immigration, pre-release and re-entry, parole, first amendment rights, and education.
The art show debuts just ahead of National Pro Bono Celebration Week, sponsored by the American Bar Association Standing Committee on Pro Bono and Public Service. Pro Bono Week spotlights the difference lawyers can make in their communities, and acknowledges the partnerships that form the basis for many successful pro bono efforts.
“The works on display showcase an amazing range of styles and viewpoints, and together they are a unique example of our commitment to community engagement through public art,” said APL Executive Director Andrea Nicolay. “Seeing these pieces up close is a powerful experience.”
Stephanie Simon
Stephanie Simon is manager of APL's Communication and Creative Services Department, which provides content and information for the library's website, social media, publications, videos, podcasts, and other outlets. Stephanie also manages APL's public relations and marketing efforts.