Join us on Monday, June 16, at the historic Connecticut State Capitol for an unforgettable evening of art, storytelling, and community at Celebrate! Prison Arts 2025. Part of Community Partners in Action’s 150th Anniversary, this special event shines a light on the transformative power of art created by those impacted by the justice system.
For nearly five decades, CPA’s nationally renowned Prison Arts Program has worked inside Connecticut’s prisons to positively transform lives and prison environments by encouraging personal and evolving artistic pursuits. Celebrate! is a powerful reminder that even behind prison walls, creativity and hope can flourish.
This year’s event will feature two inspiring exhibitions on view at the State Capitol from May 28 through June 16:
- “Letters from Prison”: A compelling collection of decorated envelopes and heartfelt open letters sent by incarcerated artists to the Franciscan Center for Urban Ministry’s Clare Gallery earlier this spring. Held every ten years since 1995, this project showcases the deeply personal folk art tradition of decorated envelopes—an ongoing effort by those incarcerated to stay connected with their families, friends, and communities.
- “Give Me Life”: A selection of artwork created by women at York Correctional Institution, offering intimate reflections on their experiences and aspirations. This powerful collection will also appear this fall at Fairfield University.
At the heart of the evening will be a live reading of open letters to families and the community, written by presently incarcerated artists. These moving messages will be read by CPA Prison Arts alumni and staff, offering rare insight into the hopes, regrets, and dreams of those behind the walls.
Celebrate! Prison Arts 2025 is more than an art event—it’s a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the power of second chances.
Event Details
Date: Monday, June 16, 2025
Location: Connecticut State Capitol, Hall of Flags
Time: 5:00 – 7:00 p.m.
Learn more and RSVP at cpa-ct.org/celebrate2025.