Pathway to Miyo-Pimâtisiwin would like to thank the following artists who submitted work to our gallery and allowed us to share their experiences with not only Covid-19, but also how it has affected their incarceration.
Furthermore, Pathway to Miyo-Pimâtisiwin would like to thank all those involved in the creation and implementation of this project. If it were not for your interest, dedication and time this would not have been possible.
Pathway to Miyo-Pimâtisiwin is a network of community based agencies, lived experienced members, Elders and vested governmental agencies collaborating together to provide our communities with equal access to support. Our mission is to provide a collaborative and community led initiative to combat social factors that reposition some individuals to street based lifestyles; decrease social violence; and promote community healing. Our vision is safe, healthy communities where all citizens are valued and have equal access to meaningful supports, connections and avenues to healing.
Pathway to Miyo-Pimâtisiwin acknowledges the devastating effects incarceration can have on mental health; however, coupled now with Covid-19, it is no secret that inmates around the world are grappling with the new realities of their physical and mental health over and above their imprisonment. We do not need to look hard to find stories of grief, loss and sorrow around the world stemming from Covid-19 and related pandemic burnout, but with all these stories of sadness, there are also complementary stories of resilience, kindness, healing and hope. Yet, so many of these stories leave out the voices of incarcerated people from the narrative, the majority of whom identify as Black, Indigenous and People of Colour.
To this end, Pathway to Miyo-Pimâtisiwin has developed an online virtual art gallery as a means to give those who are incarcerated a chance to showcase how Covid-19 has impacted them and tell their personal story of their mental health journey through art, writing, beading and other available mediums. Our intent is to create a space to give incarcerated individuals agency over their experiences and provide opportunities to connect with the community through art and story.
To kick-start the virtual art gallery, we held two contests: one to choose the name of the gallery and a second to submit artwork, which would then represent the gallery. Through these contests we arrived at the name of “All Together Gallery: Through Prison Eyes” which was a combination of two submissions by Julie McAdams and G. Iron. The artwork chosen to represent the gallery was also by Julie McAdam and her piece titled “Through Prison Eyes” beautifully represents the gallery name.
Our hope is to see online art galleries, like Altogether Gallery: Through Prison Eyes be a common theme within prison systems; as providing individuals who are incarcerated the opportunity to show the world their talent and beauty is critical to keeping that connection to community alive. Not only do inmates have the ability to receive payment for their skills and expertise, but also they are able to tell their stories, connect with culture, have a voice and take advantage of healthy ways to support their healing journey.