Art From the Outside In

With the seemingly perpetual California budget crisis ringing in everyone’s weary ears, we’ve heard lots about the disproportionate amount of money allocated to prisons instead of schools and other social institutions. But for many California residents, prison is either home or where someone in your family lives. Local artist Evan Bissell started a project eight months ago in which he met with fathers in the San Francisco Jail and youth with incarcerated fathers (the participants were not related). The kids set about creating portraits of the men, reflecting their experiences with living behind bars. “What Cannot Be Taken Away” displays the beautiful paintings and installations which resulted from the collaboration. Workshops in writing and visual arts are planned in the coming weeks to complement the exhibit; they’re open to the public.

Related Content

• Thursday's Pick: 'What Cannot Be Taken Away'
  August 12, 2010
• Were They "Postracial" Back Then, Too?
  February 17, 2010

More About

• Evan Bissell
• Prisons
• Criminal Sentencing and Punishment

Like this Story?

Sign up for the Events Newsletter: What's happening in town? From underground club nights to the biggest outdoor festivals, our top picks for the week's best events will always keep you in on the action.

Privacy Policy Cancel Continue

The opening reception for “What Cannot Be Taken Away” starts at 6:30 p.m.
Aug. 12-Sept. 11, 2010