The artwork displayed here was created and submitted by participants of the Incarcerated Scholars Conference. We are honored to share these creative works publicly to celebrate the talent, voice, and vision of the artists.
All works remain the intellectual property of their respective creators. The images, names, and likenesses of the artists are shared solely for the purpose of viewing and appreciating their work.
Reproduction, distribution, sale, or any other use of this artwork, including use of any artist’s name, image, or likeness, without explicit written permission from the creator, is strictly prohibited.
By viewing this gallery, you agree to respect the integrity and ownership of each artist’s work. Our goal is to make these creative expressions visible and valued—while protecting the rights and dignity of those who made them.
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Maybe it's the procrastination,
that causes me some hesitation,
I'm wanting some relaxation,
but can't find the motivation.
I want some peace of mind,
but can't ever seem to unwind,
and definitely cannot stop time,
so I'm often wishing i can hit rewind.
I'm stuck in a loop of uncertainty,
That borders on insanity,
so I cannot face the reality,
that I may have failed society.
And I'm lost in a cycle of pain,
where I cannot seem to maintain,
a quality of life which keeps me sane,
so I'm always looking for a way to reframe...
My thoughts and my way of thinking,
especially the way I look without seeing,
and if I can regulate my breathing,
maybe I could finda a me worth redeeming.
One step at a time slowly day by day,
I will work on my minds constant mêlée,
guard all the hurtful things I say,
and hope beyond hope that I just may...
Break through these walls holding me back,
find the freedom my mind lacks,
live in a way I can finally relax,
and guide myself through these endless stacks...
Of built up emotions and old hate,
of all that makes me hesitate,
and causes me to procrastinate,
so I can finally self-motivate.
This is a poem to self-motivate. It is hard in prison to do the things you need to do, too be the person you need to be and sometimes you need to be able to understand yourself enough to know what is wrong otherwise there is no fixing yourself, no coming back, no change.
If you are the artist of an artwork featured in this gallery and want it removed, please reach out to alliance@higheredinprison.org