CIW mural project brightens institution

July 2, 2025

The mural project at California Institution for Women (CIW) is brightening the institution while providing a rehabilitative outlet for the incarcerated population.

“The population had been pushing for a mural for quite some time,” said Brandi Davis, health program manager. “Then they brought it to the patient advisory council.”

CIW Chief Executive Officer James Elliott then connected them with mural artist Eric Davis.

“I am mostly in a mentoring role, sharing the process with them and advising them on a few little areas and techniques,” said Davis. “I’ve told them … problems (should) to be solved on the wall. A mural is kind of like a puzzle, (with) different pieces that get solved as you develop it.”

Watch the video (story continues below):

CIW mural project teaches teamwork

Amelia, one of the incarcerated mural artists, said it was a team effort.

“It was a collaborative effort,” she explained. “We all first sketched our own drawing and then submitted it to the population (and) they voted. At the end of the day, we kind of put everybody’s ideas together.”

Genisis, another incarcerated artist, said she’s enjoying the mural project.

“I was invited to join (the effort),” she said. “It was the best experience I’ve ever had.”

Eric Davis said he’s proud of the population for creating the mural.

“The mural, for me, is an expression of the women,” he said. “The whole project together (is) giving them ownership and an opportunity to express themselves.”

Brandi Davis said she’s impressed by how much the population has accomplished.

“They’re overcoming obstacles every day,” she explained.

Paint was donated by Cobalt Industrial Supply Company while paint brushes and other various supplies were loaned out from the institution.

Video produced by the incarcerated population and TV Specialist Jonathan Mumm
Submitted by Correctional Healthcare Services Administrator II Brandi Davis
Story by Don Chaddock, Inside CDCR editor