Prison Creative Arts Project: Imagination in the Face of Incarceration

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What difference can art make for people in prison? The state of Michigan spends $48,000 per prisoner every year — with little to no money going towards funding for prison education, art and rehabilitation programs. The Prison Creative Arts Project (PCAP) is an independent program of the University of Michigan that supports formerly incarcerated artists, facilitates creative arts workshops and even hosts an annual exhibition to showcase incarcerated artists’ work. PCAP was founded by William “Buzz” Alexander, the late husband of Janie Paul, the curator of PCAP and author of the book based on the project: “Making Art in Prison: Survival and Resistance”, out now via Hat and Beard Press. As you’ll hear in the program, the work of PCAP has built a vibrant community of artists inside and outside prison walls. Joining us for this conversation are Janie Paul and artist Yusef Qualls, known as Q. He was released from prison five months ago after being sentenced to life as a minor and serving 28 years. Danny Valentine is a formerly incarcerated artist also featured in the book, who credits PCAP for saving his life. What can incarcerated artists teach us about why humans make art and the power it holds? All that, plus a commentary from Laura on poets imagining Gaza.

“People in prison are treated as objects . . . [Art] is not just a hobby, it's a way for someone to stop being an object in someone else's world and to be the subject making choices, having pleasure and making something that is very valuable. “ - Janie Paul

“I lost uncles and aunts and cousins, my son's mother, girlfriends, best friends . . . Art was my way of going inside myself and talking about these things . . .” - Q (Yusef Qualls)

“This whole prison system is nothing but a form of slavery. It takes advantage of the socioeconomically challenged . . . If we keep pushing the truth out there through art and other forms, we can bring this lie to the common people . . . ” - Danny Valentine

Guests:

Janie Paul: Author, Making Art in Prison: Survival and Resistance; Emerita Professor of Art, University of Michigan; Curator, Prison Creative Arts Project

Q (Yusef Qualls): Former Juvenile Lifer & Incarcerated Artist

Danny Valentine: Formerly Incarcerated Artist

Full Episode Notes are located HERE. They include related episodes, articles, and more.

Music In the Middle: “Propaganda” featuring Brijean by Lindsey Olsen aka Salami Rose Joe Louis from her album Akousmatikous released on Flying Lotus’ Brainfeeder record label. And additional music included- "Steppin," "Beachhead," and "Ocean Point" by Podington Bear.

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