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.
Read more about the ISC Art Gallery policies

The unforeseen narrative is stated every so simply
but laced with so many complications throughout this road called life.
The evolution of all I was meant to be is still being cultivated by all that had once broken me.
Standing tall and with a head held high,
no longer shying away from the past that I once longed to hide.
Embracing the pain with new insight,
seeing a bigger picture because my mind is no longer trapped inside.
Trapped inside the cage of rage, depression hurt and despair.
Opening the doors to new possibilities that I never knew were there.
Embracing a future with so much confidence and clarity
thanks to the compass I call perspective,
aligning my vision as infinite in this beautiful unforeseen narrative.
Through harrowing days of wallowing in self pity, to shifting my perspective about the way that I would undertake this journey of incarceration, my level of introspection was heightened. A fire was birthed in me to defy the odds and therefore the unforeseen narrative was inspired by the evolution of me through education
If you are the artist of an artwork featured in this gallery and want it removed, please reach out to alliance@higheredinprison.org