The Visual Arts Center of New Jersey in Summit presents a powerful quartet of exhibitions that delve into the harsh realities and psychological toll of imprisonment. Through the eyes of artists who have experienced incarceration, these shows challenge viewers to confront the darker side of justice and advocate for reform.A Compelling Call to Action for Prison Reform and Human Rights
In a world where mass incarceration remains a critical issue, Kristen Evangelista and Tamar Montuma are using art as a vehicle for change. Their curated exhibitions at the Visual Arts Center of New Jersey offer an unflinching look at life behind bars, urging gallery-goers to become advocates for those ensnared by the carceral system. These exhibits not only expose the human cost of imprisonment but also highlight the urgent need for systemic reform.
The Unseen Struggles Captured on Canvas
Art has long been a medium for expressing freedom, yet the works featured in "Something to Hold On To: Art in the Carceral System" tell a different story. Seven artists, all former or current inmates, present their experiences through paintings, photographs, and sketches. Each piece is a testament to the limitations imposed by confinement, capturing moments of despair, resilience, and fleeting hope. Todd Tarselli's "Solitary" vividly portrays the claustrophobic reality of isolation, while Antionette Stephen's "The Judged Woman — Untethered" conveys the fragmented existence of women within the prison system. The raw emotion in these works serves as a stark reminder of the psychological impact of prolonged incarceration.
Visual Narratives of Injustice and Advocacy
Some of the most compelling pieces in the exhibition are those that subtly convey profound messages. Davi Russo's Polaroids of family visits during limited time slots evoke a deep sense of loss and longing. Cheryl Chen's "Prison Cell Sketch" brings viewers face-to-face with the starkness of a cell, complete with its steel bars and grim amenities. Despite the heavy subject matter, these artworks transcend mere documentation; they invite empathy and reflection. The curators have carefully ensured that the exhibit does not exploit voyeuristic curiosity but instead fosters a deeper understanding of the issues at hand.
Birds Behind Bars: Symbolism and Social Commentary
Gilberto Rivera's "Jail Bird" series stands out for its unique approach. His collages feature birds—symbols of freedom—interacting with the oppressive environment of prison cells. The walls behind the birds are adorned with newspaper clippings that detail the harsh realities of incarceration. This juxtaposition of flight and confinement challenges viewers to question the fairness of the justice system. Rivera's work is both visually striking and intellectually stimulating, offering a concentrated dose of information that might otherwise go unnoticed.
Historical Echoes and Modern Parallels
Jared Owens' artwork draws parallels between historical injustices and contemporary issues. By mixing dirt from a federal prison yard with his paint, Owens creates haunting images that speak to the cyclical nature of oppression. His "Ellapsium (Diptych)" evokes a sense of endless waiting, while the curved shapes at the bottom of the piece allude to the Middle Passage—a dark chapter in American history. Chris Wilson's aggressive acrylics further explore this theme, explicitly connecting modern-day incarceration to the legacy of slavery. His bold, provocative paintings challenge viewers to confront uncomfortable truths about profit-driven imprisonment.
Voice from Solitary Confinement: Ojore Lutalo’s Revolutionary Art
Ojore Lutalo, who spent 22 years in solitary confinement, uses his art to voice relentless criticism of the American political system. His photocopied collages, reminiscent of revolutionary broadsheets, span three decades and remain eerily relevant today. Lutalo's work combines newspaper articles, grainy photographs, and slogans to create a powerful narrative of resistance. His art is a call to action, urging society to address the systemic inequalities that perpetuate mass incarceration.
Humanizing the Faces of Reentry
Beyond the main exhibition, two smaller shows provide additional perspectives. "Perceptions Reimagined: Art from the Women at Edna Mahan" showcases drawings created by female inmates under the guidance of artist Cara London. These pieces reveal the emotional depth and creativity of incarcerated women. Meanwhile, "Reentry, Reestablished, Renewed" features photographs of individuals recently released from jail, designed in collaboration with photographer Erik James Montgomery. One particularly poignant image captures Cliff, a man who spent 36 years behind bars, standing beside a life-sized photograph of his younger self. The contrast between past and present highlights the personal toll of long-term imprisonment.
