“I believe that your program gives the public a glimpse into the type of things that inspire even the most downtrodden of us all. When people see our work, for a few moments they forget that this work was done by a felon, but by another human being. A human being who has the same thoughts, emotions, and inspirations as they do, and for that one moment, a major social and political barrier is shattered.”
— Anonymous artist featured in the exhibition
PCAP is proud to present the Annual Exhibition of Art by Michigan Prisoners. Since its inception in 1996, this nationally recognized show has grown to be the largest exhibition of prisoner art in the country, featuring more than 300 works of art by over 200 artists. Despite limited resources, exhibition artists create work in a rich range of styles, mediums and themes. The exhibition sheds light on the talents found behind prison walls and encourages the public to take a second look, inspiring dialogue and awareness. As a result of this annual event, the amount of art created in Michigan prisons has increased dramatically, and Michigan prison artists have become national leaders, inspiring others to create art behind bars.
The exhibition is free and open to the public.
How is the art selected?
Exhibition curators (Buzz Alexander, Janie Paul, Sari Adelson, Jason Wright) and volunteers travel to over forty prisons throughout Michigan to select the strongest work from the artists.
Is there a theme?
Each year’s theme is determined by responses to the evaluation PCAP sends to its community of artists. The theme is a topic that artists may address visually, if they so choose. The theme for 2012 is "Rebuilding from Disaster." In previous years, themes have ranged from climate change to the current economic situation in Michigan to the Gulf Oil Spill.
How many visitors come to the exhibition?
Visitors return to the show year after year to glimpse art that is remarkable for its beauty, originality, and sheer expressive power. The 2011 exhibition attracted over 4,000 visitors. Organizers expect even higher attendance this year, and an exciting array of new work.
2007-2010 Gallery
Co-Curators Talk about the Exhibition
