NORFOLK, Va. (WAVY) — In Norfolk, the Chrysler Museum unveils its new exhibit, “Beyond the Block,” featuring current Hampton Roads inmates’ artwork.
“Beyond the Block” is featured in the Margaret Ray Student and Family Gallery at the Chrysler Museum from Jan. 28 through March 3 with free admission. The museum has partnered with the Chesapeake, Norfolk and Virginia Beach Sheriff’s Offices.
“We are excited to participate in the ‘Beyond the Block’ exhibit at the Chrysler Museum,” said Norfolk Sheriff Joe Baron, in a press release.
“Beyond the Block” is an art exhibit that features work created by current inmates. Through their art, inmates are able to showcase obstacles they face, while also using a creative outlet to overcome them.
“We have so many talented, creative people in our jail and this program allows them to showcase their abilities to the public,” said Virginia Beach Sheriff Rocky Holcomb, in a press release. “It gives them strength and confidence to believe in themselves and what they can accomplish in the future while humanizing them to people outside jail walls.”
Beginning in 2017, the exhibit is a part of a partnership between correctional facilities and art museums in Virginia, originally starting with Virginia Beach sheriff’s Office before expanding to include additional offices in Hampton Roads. One of the participating museums is the Chrysler Museum.
“This exhibition gives voice to artists whose creativity flourishes despite challenging circumstances, reminding us of the resilience of the human spirit and the unifying power of artistic expression,” said Erik Neil, the Macon and Joan Brock Director of the Chrysler Museum of Art, in a press release.
It has since been a recurring exhibit. It includes more than 50 pieces of work using materials such as food, toilet paper, jail-safe pens and deodorant, a release states.
“’Beyond the Block’ has proven to be an excellent path for inmates to work through the mistakes made in the past and look toward becoming productive members of our community,” said Holcomb, in a press release.
The museum will also be hosting a public reception to celebrate the exhibit. Attendees include the sheriff’s offices, deputies and artists’ family members, according to a release. The reception will be held on Feb. 7 with free admission.
For information about the museum, click here.