Across the Wall Exhibition Connects Students and the Incarcerated
On December 10, the Concord Academy community gathered in the Ransome Room for Across The Wall, an art exhibition presented by the student-run Prison Justice Project. Aiming to amplify underrepresented voices, the event showcased creative works by CA students alongside those of individuals incarcerated in Massachusetts prisons.
Curated by club co-heads Lyla Brooks ’25, Jacob Himelfarb ’26, and Izzy Wood ’25, the exhibition featured a diverse range of works, from painting and drawing to experiential poetry and installation art.
The concept for Across The Wall grew from Wood’s desire to ignite a conversation about mass incarceration, especially after the closure of the nearby MCI-Concord state prison.
While taking a ceramics course, Izzy realized art could serve as a powerful bridge between students and those experiencing incarceration. In partnership with her parent, who is a criminal defense attorney, she connected with local prisons. She says, “In talking to a few incarcerated individuals to gauge interest in a showcase like this, I was surprised to find that not only were people willing to submit but eager for an opportunity to be heard.”
At the exhibition reception, students had a chance to write personal notes to the incarcerated artists and share what the works evoked for them. It was also a moment to reflect on the striking juxtapositions on display.
Incarcerated artist Angel Rivera shared an evocative black-and-white pencil portrait of a woman’s face. He reflected, “Art makes me feel alive like I am sharing a piece of myself with others.” In a similar vein, CA student Ava Khabbaz ’25 presented a black-and-white photographic portrait of two children. She explained, “I created this photo using a film camera because it captures the essence of innocence and the complexity of our ever-changing, fast-paced world.”
About her poem “On Mother Nature,” club co-head Lyla said, “For me, writing poems is about expressing emotions. It’s an escape from the world into my innermost spaces.” Incarcerated artist Randall Trapp shared a poem, “Yellow Butterfly,” in which he similarly explores the power of self-expression and the natural world.
By providing a platform for incarcerated artists, Across The Wall offered a space for artistic exchange and challenged preconceived notions about the incarcerated community. Izzy says, “My sincere hope is that this exhibit was transformative for those who experienced it, forever opening their eyes to the humanity of those behind bars.”
