Through a new partnership with Restorative Justice volunteers Libby Fisher and Erica Averion and the Walton Correctional Institution (WCI), the CAA is proud to introduce a very special exhibition titled “Con-scious Expressions: An Inside Perspective” featuring original work created by residents of three dorms within WCI.

The title of the exhibit was submitted by WCI resident Michael George who states, “I chose this title because I truly believe that our prisons house many talented men and women. However, most of the media coverage of prisons and prisoners will never show that. Many of us are just broken individuals who made a poor choice in a moment of weakness. Our art creations are conscious expressions of our joy, pain, despair, and hope. The exhibit will hopefully give those who see it a glimpse of our humanity as well as an appreciation of our creativity.”

“This art exhibit was born organically from friendships among South Walton women. CAA Executive Director Jennifer Steele mentioned to CAA board member Mimi Gavigan her goal to create a jail/prison art outreach program,” said Restorative Justice volunteer Libby Fisher. “Mimi knew of the volunteer work that Erica and I were doing, and so we met, brainstormed and developed the idea of the art exhibit. The administration at Walton Correctional Institute – the Florida state prison in DeFuniak Springs – was enthusiastic and supportive. We hope to show the public the talent and humanity of people in prison.”

The exhibit is on display at Perla Baking Company in DeFuniak Spring February 25 - May 31, 2021 as well as on the CAA’s website. Join us for a reception on Friday, May 28 from 4 -7 pm. 

Con-scious Expressions was previously on display at Emerald Coast Theatre Company from October 2020 - February, 2021.