Beyond the Frame: Justice-Impacted Photography
1 in 5 prisoners worldwide is incarcerated in the U.S., making the U.S. a leader in the total number of people behind bars. Consequently, for previously incarcerated individuals, access to artistic outlets becomes crucial for emotional healing, rebuilding self-identity, and reintegration into society.
"Beyond the Frame" explores what it means to live beyond judgment, fallacies, and our past. Allowing us to live beyond the literal and metaphorical confines that have previously defined us. Each photo delves into themes of self-identity and self-preservation through photography. Art is a tool for expression and a necessary pathway to freedom.
Featuring works by: Josephine Horace, Pablo Mendoza, Marketta Sims, Paxton Anthony Murphy, and Chelsea Chism-Vargas.
Curated collectively by: NaBeela Washington, Editor-in-Chief at Lucky Jefferson, Ivana Jarmon, and featured artists.
Support: This work is supported by IL Humanities and The Amazon Literary Partnership. We also express gratitude to Buddy, The Chicago Cultural Center, the Hyde Park Art Center, DePaul Art Museum, and The Museum of Contemporary Photography for making space for this work. Learn more about Lucky Jefferson at luckyjefferson.com.
Artist Bios
Josephine Horace-Jackson, a seasoned Community Navigator with over 37 years of combined experience in Healthcare, Grassroots Organizing, Advocacy, Policymaking, and Lobbying. Ms. Horace-Jackson or Momma Jo as she's affectionately known in the community has gained experience in three states, TX, GA, and IL tirelessly working with the disenfranchised, marginalized, and justice-impacted persons
Pablo Mendoza, a proud father and lifelong student. He is an advocate for the poor and disenfranchised with an eye towards a more equitable future. Pablo's work explores privileges imbued upon him by society.
Marketta Sims, an advocate for reformative justice and the reduction of homelessness, known for her successful campaign for the Illinois Housing Action Initiative bill. As a poet and artist, she explores themes of freedom and what 'home' means for all.
Having roots in Downstate Illinois, Paxton Anthony Murphy now calls Chicago home. His lens captures the beauty he finds in his Midwestern roots. "More than just telling a story, I aim for photographs that function as portals, inviting viewers to step into the world captured within."
Chelsea Chism-Vargas, a multidisciplinary artist & cultural practitioner who aims to conceptualize humanity, nature, & the cyclical patterns of our world. she draws inspiration from glimpses of liberation, spirituality & her peruvian heritage. chelsea’s works in this exhibit are entitled “Cicadas: Resurrection” & “Rhythms of Life: Harmonious Power”.
may we all be free.
