At California State Prison (CSP), Solano, 12 incarcerated mural artists are doing more than just painting walls, they’re transforming the prison.
Mural class is transforming walls, building bridges
On Level III yards, over the course of eight months, these men have designed and painted large-scale murals under the guidance of artists Rachel Wolfe-Goldsmith and Gary Harrell. It’s part of a powerful program rooted in creativity, collaboration, and personal growth.
The class is much more than an art workshop; it’s creating a community. Participants from different racial groups and age ranges work together. This creative collaboration is breaking down barriers and building trust through shared vision and teamwork.
In a space where division often dominates, this mural project is cultivating harmony and cooperation in a deeply meaningful way.
Beyond the artwork itself, the program teaches professional artistic techniques and job-ready skills. Students are gaining experience in a real-world creative trade. Meanwhile, it’s also instilling a sense of purpose and direction. This helps reduce disciplinary issues, improving their chances for success on the outside.
This powerful work is made possible through the William James Association. The nonprofit organization brings professional artists into California prisons through its Prison Arts Project.
Since 1977, the association has been dedicated to the belief that access to the arts can lead to transformative change.
Wolfe-Goldsmith, a renowned Oakland-based muralist and creative director, brings her expertise in multicultural storytelling, and large-scale artwork to the project.
Harrell, a seasoned facilitator with decades of experience running Arts-in-Corrections programs, offers a deep well of mentorship and wisdom.
Together, the instructors are teaching art while also helping build bridges. The program shifts narratives, creating a space where healing, growth, and expression thrive.
Murals on the Level II yards
On CSP-Solano’s Level II facilities, the mural project has a more grass-roots background.
The incarcerated persons housed on Facilities C and D have taken their talents to new heights in the Level II Gym. A work in progress over the last year, large scale murals of football, basketball, mixed martial arts, and boxing legends grace the walls.
These murals are inspiring athletes to achieve their goals and show, as Muhammad Ali said, “Impossible is nothing.”
Using paint donated to the institution and facilities from outside vendors, the incarcerated artists are working to bring beauty to a typically bland environment.
Level II’s lead mural participant is incarcerated person Ramos.
“With all the rehabilitation happening, what better way to express ourselves then through this art. There’s a lot of talent behind these walls,” he said. “There’s a lot of potential as well so why not share and teach others how to do art like this. Rehabilitate ourselves and each other in a way that helps beautify the area while working together.”
New mural participants have come together to work on the outside of the facility buildings, a vision from Facility C Capt. Brida, with support from Associate Warden Cabrera. These murals bring more color to the facility, creating an appealing environment for staff and incarcerated.
Submitted by Lt. J. Guerrero
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