ACPL art exhibit highlights humanity of those in prison

The showcase features works by incarcerated artists, including those on death row

Feb. 17, 2026 at 3:31pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A new art exhibit titled 'Portraits of Lives Affected by Incarceration' is on display at the Allen County Public Library Main Branch in Fort Wayne, Indiana. The exhibit is the result of a collaboration between the Death Row Support Project, Manchester University Professor Tim Reed, and artist Spoon Jackson, who is currently incarcerated in California. The showcase features artwork, poetry, and video installations that aim to increase awareness and engage with the perspectives of those living within the prison system, including some on death row.

Why it matters

The exhibit provides a platform for incarcerated artists to share their work and stories, giving the public a window into the humanity of those affected by the criminal justice system. It also sparks conversations around current policies like the death penalty in the U.S.

The details

The exhibit includes works by Spoon Jackson, an acclaimed poet and artist who has been incarcerated for 50 years since he was 20 years old. In addition to Jackson's art, the showcase features pieces from other artists on death row. Professor Tim Reed also created video portraits that pair incarcerated individuals' voices with original musical compositions. The full collection will continue touring regional venues after the library exhibit.

  • The exhibit runs through March 14, 2026 at the ACPL Main Branch.
  • The full collection will tour additional regional venues after the library exhibit.

The players

Spoon Jackson

An artist currently incarcerated in California who was sentenced to life without parole 50 years ago when he was 20 years old. He has become an acclaimed poet and writer in addition to being an artist.

Tim Reed

A Manchester University Professor who coordinated the exhibit and created a series of video portraits pairing incarcerated individuals' voices with original musical compositions.

Death Row Support Project

A non-profit organization based in North Manchester that collaborated on the exhibit.

Allen County Public Library Main Branch

The location hosting the 'Portraits of Lives Affected by Incarceration' exhibit in Fort Wayne, Indiana.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“It's an invitation for folks to reflect on the humanity of folks who live within the prison system.”

— Tim Reed, Manchester University Professor (wane.com)

“They're often talked about, but we don't sort of hear their voices and see their work. So I think it's just an overall kind of increasing our own awareness and kind of engaging with folks who maybe don't always have a spotlight shine on their stories and their perspective.”

— Tim Reed, Manchester University Professor (wane.com)

What’s next

The full collection of artwork from the exhibit will continue touring regional venues like BIPOCA Incubator and Gallery, First Presbyterian Church, and Manchester University after the library display ends.

The takeaway

This exhibit provides a powerful platform for incarcerated artists to share their humanity and perspectives, sparking important conversations around criminal justice policies and the need to recognize the dignity of all people, even those within the prison system.