The purpose of this website is to give the public an opportunity to see the creative works that can be accomplished by those behind bars. All of the work displayed here was done by someone being held in the Huerfano County Jail in Walsenburg, Colorado.
Many of these contributors are short-term houseguests, charged with misdemeanors, and awaiting their days in court . Others will be inmates somewhere for a very long time. But, all of them will live together here until the courts decide their fates.
There are few materials available to work with during their stay, but one of the things they can do is draw with colored pencils. So, anyone who has something to say is free to do so at any time. The long days allow plenty of time to perfect each drawing, as can be seen in the detail and effort that goes into each piece.
This website is their gallery, and their means of displaying their talents for the world to see.
Detention can sometimes lead to discovery in surprising ways. From the art galleries in the minds of inmates comes talent beyond our imaginations. Some inmates show sadness, sorrow, happiness, sensitivity, or dreams. At that moment the inner self will push the pencil, and Jailhouse Art is created.
Give it up for these artists. The walls are thick and the fences are high, but they will hear your applause.
