Creativity and connection across prison walls: 29th annual exhibition features Michigan artists

Michigan News

March 17, 2025

One of the world’s largest and longest-running exhibitions of incarcerated artists is back with new programming designed to foster connection and deepen public understanding of incarceration in Michigan.

The 29th annual Exhibition of Artists in Michigan Prisons, curated by the University of Michigan Prison Creative Arts Project, showcases 772 artworks by 538 artists incarcerated in 26 state prisons. It is running now through April 1 at the Duderstadt Center Gallery on U-M’s North Campus.

Did I do that? Image credit: Daniel Teriberi

For nearly three decades, the exhibition has provided a platform for incarcerated artists to share their work with the public, shedding light on personal narratives and the power of artistic expression.

The exhibition features diverse styles and media, including paintings, portraits, tattoo imagery, landscapes, sculpture, fiber arts and found materials. Each fall, volunteers, including students, select the pieces and visit every prison in Michigan to interact directly with the artists. An audio tour accompanying the exhibition will feature select stories from these visits.

For over 35 years, PCAP has worked to bridge the gap between incarcerated individuals and the broader community through artistic collaboration, mutual learning and growth. The program has expanded to include undergraduate courses, weekly art workshops in Michigan prisons, an annual literary review and year-round events to foster dialogue and connection.

According to Emily Chase, PCAP’s exhibition and curatorial coordinator, themes of community and mentorship emerged strongly in this year’s collection.

“During our selection trips, we were inspired by the common theme of community that emerged across the state,” she said. “We witnessed experienced artists mentoring newcomers and saw how the artistic efforts of one individual can motivate and inspire others.”

This sentiment resonates with Charlisa Wood, an artist featured in the exhibition. In a recorded interview, she discussed how her work helps her feel connected to her mother.

House of Kards. Image credit: Michael Browning

Juvenile’s Life. Image credit: Koya Dogon

“It’s almost like sending her a little piece of myself,” she said. “My place in the world is to help people understand the different things that go on in society, the generational things, the things that hurt or the things that make you feel really happy, and I can do that using yarn.”

The exhibition allows incarcerated artists to have their voices heard beyond prison walls.

“Their voices are so often silenced, and this is one of the few areas where they can feel heard,” said Mattie Levy, PCAP community engagement coordinator.

This year, the exhibition introduces a new event, “Art and Music: A Collaborative Concert,” in which students will perform original musical compositions inspired by select artworks.

“The concert serves as a way to promote both the artwork by the amazing artists in PCAP as well as the project itself by continuing its goal of empowering and uniting with people impacted by our justice system through our shared love of creativity,” said Ty Bloomfield, one of the event’s organizers.

The concert begins at 8 p.m. March 28 at Hankinson Rehearsal Hall in the Earl V. Moore Building on U-M’s North Campus.