Exploring Inmate Outsider Art

An important category of Outsider Art is Inmate Art. We have some from the Minnesota State Prison system and are hoping to make more available. We don't believe that all Inmate Art qualifies as Visionary Art. We still use our same criteria for evaluation in determining if these are pieces we want to acquire: unique subject matter, use of unusual mediums, a compulsion to create.

We feel work that reflects the atmosphere of confinement, provides insight into the psyche of the prisoner or expresses his desire to escape from his situation – if only psychologically – are all themes that few other people can address. For people who are new to this subset of Outsider Art, it invites questions; even judgment calls. Who gets the money? Why should inmates earn an income? What did the artist do to end up in prison?

There are creative programs at various systems throughout the country and a visit to their websites provides most of the information. Each seems to handle it a bit differently, but it is clear from interviews with the inmates that the programs provide them a diversion and the positive effects of their involvement with such programs often carries over to their life after their release.

There is an interesting story from last May's Hartford Advocate about Connecticut's system. Likewise, the University of Michigan's web site has information about a similar program between the Michigan prison system and the university. Inmate Art is more than just a part of Visionary Art, it's also becoming a tool for driving change, relating in particular to the death penalty.

The Indiana Information Center on the Abolition of Capital Punishment, as part of the Spirit and Place Program, will have an exhibit of work by death row inmates from Nov. 11-18, 2005. It will be at the Christian Theological Seminary. Visit their website for more information.