“Growing up this was a scene that was all too familiar for me. Which has turned into a dream of one day getting to experience once again. The inspiration of this painting came about last year when I was reminiscing about my childhood in Vietnam and the fond memories of freedom.”

Canvas board & acrylic paints, 10 in X 8 in

Incarcerated in Chuckawalla State Prison, Sentenced to 40 years to life

“When somebody looks at my artwork, I want people to see how we eat Ramen soups while in the hole and feel the struggle. Abolition, Resistance, Transformation to me means change, and inspiration to uplift, along with fighting for something positive.”

Standard white paper & pen filler, 11 X  8.5 in

Incarcerated at 25 years old, incarcerated in Richard J Donovan Correctional Facility

“I used color schemes to make the woman stand out and every color compliments something. And I hope your eyes feel the love and my appreciation for color being so regal.”

Canvas, acrylic paints, & wooden paint brushes, 10 X 8 in

Sentenced to 2 Life Terms, incarcerated in Folsom State Prison

“I do not like to draw stuff that is dark and emotional. I have those feelings, but my art is bright and in your face, and a little bit quirky, and that is me. I just want people to feel whatever they feel. I’m happy with that. As long as they feel something.”

Multi media paper, graphite, pastels, pen, marker, water color, & acrylic, 8 X 6 in

Incarcerated in California Institute for Men

The cuffs “demonstrate the unique side of two emotions. On one hand, the cuffs demonstrate the physical element of confinement, which results in heartache. But, beyond the pain I found purpose. My purpose is family. As a husband, father, son, sibling, and friend, the thought of them ultimately gave me a why and the passage to recognize love. Love is then the result of the other emotion which I, the artist, attempted to display.” Paul’s art was also featured in The Inside Journal in the summer of 2021.

Cardstock & charcoal/ pencil, 9 X 12 in

Sentenced to 51 years, incarcerated in Pelican Bay State Prison

“To show that the beauty of making the right choices in life leads to beautiful scenes of freedom. Life is just but a blink of seconds that pass, but our memory captures views that are forever grained in our hearts. When somebody sees my painting I want them to make plans for the weekend and to go to the beach and dig their toes in the sand.” Richard’s art was also featured in The Inside Journal in the February of 2023.

Black canvas, oil based paints, paint brushes, & sealer, 16 X 20 in

Sentenced to 25 years to Life, incarcerated in Avenal State Prison