Arts of Oppression
Since the beginning of time, art has served as a vehicle to connect cultures, communities, and causes. Arts of Oppression is Miles of Freedom’s vehicle. The art created by those currently or formerly incarcerated individuals ranges from drawings and paintings to sculpture, spoken word, poetry and music.
Launched in 2016, Arts of Oppression is an event that highlights the talent and skills of those incarcerated or formally incarcerated. It is more than a platform to showcase “outsider art”. It’s an opportunity to discuss art and the intersection of oppression and incarceration. Arts of Oppression provides space for society to link its voice with those impacted by incarceration. The overarching goal of Arts of Oppression is to create value and hope for the artist and challenge historical narratives of mass incarceration and oppression.
Miles of Freedom created Arts of Oppression as an opportunity for empathy through art. Our events seek to engage the participation of community, city officials, law enforcement and more.
Impact
Since 2016, Miles of Freedom, in collaboration with several university and arts entities, including UNT Dallas, UNT Law, and a residency with the SMU Pollock Gallery, has presented five shows. These shows resulted in total sales of over $10,000, with 88% directly benefiting the artists and their families.
Call to Action
Working with a university provides a dual platform to educate, lend credibility and build bridges. Miles of Freedom seeks to engage the collegiate community through Arts of Oppression. This creates an opportunity to explore the intersection of art, criminal justice, mental health, and incarceration.
For more information about Arts of Oppression, please give us a call at 214-290-2337, ext. 203.
