Welcome to the newest gallery in JAC’s Gallery of the Month series, where we showcase a wide range of art and writing under unique monthly themes. Check back on the first of each month for a new collection of works by the talented artists in the JAC network. To view past galleries of the month, see our Gallery Archive. 

JAC first began as an online resource dedicated to uplifting the voices and stories of artists inside. 14 years later, that vision has grown into a community of almost 500 inside artists, their loved ones, teaching artists, dozens of interns and volunteers, and a dedicated full time staff. JAC has become a space for creative expression, knowledge sharing, community building, and the collective reimagining of a world beyond policing and incarceration. And we continue to grow each year!

JAC would not be what it is today if not for each and every artist in our network. Every brush stroke on canvas and movement of pen on paper has come together to write the story of JAC. 

But there is one key part of every piece’s story that can often be overlooked: its title. When an artist chooses to title a piece, or not, it has the power to reveal deeper meanings, adding to the viewer’s total experience of the work. Some capture the essence of an image or story, while others remain non-specific and mysterious. Some are long and lyrical, others short and punchy. Many have the power to elicit strong emotions and associations independent of the work in question. In all cases, titles serve as a point of entry for the viewer. 

As you scroll through this month’s curation, you will find that the titles in this September gallery spell out “Justice Arts Coalition” — one giant acrostic poem of writings from the artists in JAC’s network. We hope that this month’s gallery can represent the way everyone’s stories come together to make JAC all that it is. Justice Arts Coalition would not be here today without the support and passion of every individual in our network, from every single artist inside and out, to our volunteers and interns, to the attendees at JAC events and visitors to the website. The Gallery of the Month team would like to thank you for taking the time to check back every month to view the newest curated galleries. We encourage you to leave comments for the artists to show your support and to reach out about purchasing pieces that pique your interest. 

“Thank you so much for this opportunity. Knowing that there are still people out there who care enough to take the time to send and/or listen to what I feel I need to say is such a blessing. Being in this place, sometimes it feels that nobody cares or that I am simply forgotten. My heart is full of things that I believe need to be shared. And having that means more to me then you may ever know. Thanks again!” ~ Jordan

We are so grateful for everyone in the JAC network and hope to only continue growing this wonderful community. 

We hope you enjoy this month’s gallery: An Acrostic Poem of Poetry 

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Justice by Gilbert Lee Hamel

Unicorn Sock by Royal Robinson 

Secret of Time by B.E. The Truth

This Is Me by Brittian Kory Osorio 

In Wait by Christopher Meredith 

Captive Soul by Ismail Jaber

Existing Question by Derrick Grantley 

 

A Sad Truth by Bednago Harper 

Rose by Monk 

True Friend by Jose Santiago 

She Wouldn’t Know Love by John Johnson 

 

Concrete Walls by David Meade

Old Friends by O.G. Blue

A Pain Shared by Jordan Earls 

Loves Evolution by Safi Dona’t

Inside Insomnia by Anthony Billings

Teach Me Grace by Cedar Annenkovna

Into the Abyss 3 by Gary Farlow

O Love by Kaheem Shakel Bennet

Need Rises Up by Jennifer Diaz