Lee Jaspar Producer, Musician, Sound Engineer, Teacher About Artist Born in Sacramento, Lee is a professional musician who plays four instruments and teaches. Honorably discharged from the United States Air Force, Lee played guitar for the Air Force Band at McChord AFB in Washington State. He is currently the Video Librarian for the San Quentin Television division of the San Quentin Media Center. He taught music theory at California Medical Facility and through the sponsorship of Mount Tamalpais College Program at San Quentin. Read More Lee was a child prodigy who began playing the piano at five years old. He started studying guitar when he was eight. Bass was an important part of his compositions so he studied this instrument as well. Lee was also fortunate enough to receive vocal training from Joyce Diamond who was one of the original “Chiffons.” The Chiffons had a top 40 hit called, “He’s So Fine” back in the 60s. After Joyce left the Chiffons, she began singing and performing jazz with Jessica Williams. Young players like Lee also had the opportunity to work with Joyce and greatly benefited from her talent and experience in the world of jazz. In 1996, Lee was sentenced under three strikes and has been in prison for 28 years. Through many rehabilitation programs he has participated in over the last three decades, Lee has come to understand his responsibility to the community and the people he has harmed. Each day his work is invigorated with opportunities to serve. The Artwork Initiative is tailor made to his gifts and desire to serve the incarcerated community as well as all people in the state of California and beyond. Lee feels very fortunate to have this and many other opportunities to prove his rehabilitation through service to his community. He has dedicated his life to service as part of his lifelong commitment to redirect his energy into a vision that values others. Wherever he happens to be, he sees those around him as his community and that in itself creates a blessed opportunity to continue to make amends.
Gerry Rissell a.k.a Shadow
Gerry Rissell a.k.a Shadow About Artist Gerry Rissell a.k.a Shadow grew up in San Diego CA and learned at the tender age of 5 how to draw. His mother was an artist who did paintings of clowns and landscapes and early on thought him and his siblings about art. At one point in his life he had given up on art and shortly there after ended in prison. And it was there in pelican bay state prison in 1998 that a neighbor gave him some art supplies. Read More And with these he submerged him self back into the arts and is now using the arts to rehabiltate him self.Shadow’s work was recently show cased at the Artwork Initiative Expo at San Quentin Rehabilitation Center back in January 26th 2024.
Lamavis Comundoiwilla
Lamavis Comundoiwilla Img. Credit PeterMerts.com About Artist Lamavis Comundoiwilla started his journey back in 1998 as he steadily learned to express himself through art. He formally started learning to paint when he was transferred to San Quentin in 2018, thanks to the Arts and Correction program, the William James Association, and the California art Council. Read More Lamavis was given support in his pursuit of the arts, which led to him creating a “fusion” style of painting he describes as “merging pointillism with or more other styles of painting.”https://stanforddaily.com/2021/07/01/the-artistic-fusion-of-lamavis-comundoiwillas-paintings/He was awarded the 2023 John Sheridan price for the arts, featited at the Marin County fair, as well as the Bartolini gallery, UCLA and was recently featured on the cover of the NYU Center race inequality law report annual report (2022-2023) https://www.law.nyu.edu/centers/race-inequality-law He was awarded First Place Prize at the 2019 Marin County Fair. His work has been featured at the Marin Civic Center Bartolini Gallery, San Francisco Airport Terminal, San Francisco Opera House Museum, the Sacramento, California, Capitol Building, University of Derby, England, (2019-2020) University of California, Berkeley, The Museum of the African Diaspora, and DreamCorp’s National Empathy Day and Black Futures Weekend events. Portfolio Art Works Lamavis- Nubian Madonna Mixed Media Lamavis- Amani Candice Mixed Media Artist by Lamavis Comundoiwilla Califia’s Wonder, 2023 Load More End of Content.
Steve Yen
Steve Yen About Artist “I’ll Write Myself a Love Song” Listen to it on Spotify: I’ll Write Myself a Love Song. “Over the Phone” Listen to it on Spotify: Over the Phone. Over the past twenty years in prison, I have learned to use songwriting to process my emotions, identifying how they affect my thinking and actions. This practice has given me the opportunity to seek and learn healthy ways to deal with the stresses and trauma of life. Read More I aspire to become a professional musician, meeting, collaborating with, and learning from other artists. I want to create songs that people can relate to and that last the test of time.I am also an assistant producer with the award winning Ear-Hustle podcast, sharing the stories of the incarcerated with the outside world .https://www.earhustlesq.com/Â Â In addition, I plan to use my music as a platform to further my social justice efforts to create safer communities. As a co founder of the people in blue https://thepeopleinblue.home.blog/ . I have provided experienced recommendations through interviews and reports https://thepeopleinblue.home.blog/ , as a facilitator of rehabilitation programs within he cdcr, to Governor Gavin Newsome’s advisory council, which they have used to create their plan for the transformation of San Quentin report https://www.cdcr.ca.gov/news/2024/01/05/report-to-transform-san-quentin-submitted-to-cdcr/Â Â I believe that musicians and artists have a unique platform to not only entertain but to advocate for social justice to improve society, which I plan to do.If you are interested in my music and or can provide assistance, please contact my support at. Allmymusic345@gmail.com Portfolio Art Works
Lucky Patino
Lucky Patino Graffiti Artist & Graphic Designer (Urban Artist ) About Artist Lucky Patino (LKY), a trailblazing urban artist originating from the vibrant streets of California, embodies innovation and creativity in the realm of contemporary fashion. With an unwavering commitment to artistic expression, LKY introduces a fresh perspective to the dynamic landscape of urban clothing. His visionary approach illuminates the essence of street culture, captivating audiences worldwide with his distinctive designs and unparalleled creativity. Read More At the heart of Lucky Patino’s artistic journey lies a relentless pursuit of authenticity and originality. Through his work, he transcends conventional boundaries, seamlessly merging artistic finesse with the raw energy of urban life. Each creation serves as a testament to LKY’s unrivaled ability to capture the essence of modern style, redefining the very fabric of urban fashion. Central to Lucky Patino’s artistic ethos is the belief that fashion is not merely about clothing but a form of self-expression—a canvas through which individuals can articulate their identity and embrace their unique story. With this philosophy as his guiding principle, LKY crafts designs that resonate deeply with the pulse of contemporary culture, offering a platform for self-expression and empowerment. LKY’s distinctive aesthetic is characterized by its boldness and authenticity, reflecting the eclectic tapestry of urban life. His designs encapsulate the spirit of the streets, infusing each piece with a sense of rebellion and individuality. From vibrant graffiti-inspired motifs to intricately detailed illustrations, every creation bears the hallmark of LKY’s creative genius, inviting audiences to embark on a journey of self-discovery and personal expression. Portfolio Art Works Lky Cap designs Lky T-shirt designs (2) Lky T-shirt designs (3) Lky T-shirt designs (4) Load More End of Content.
Rahsaan Thomas
Rahsaan “New York” Thomas Writer, producer, podcaster, director, journalist Social justice warrior best known as “New York” on the Ear Hustle podcast. About Artist Rahsaan “New York” Thomas grew up in the notorious Brownsville section of Brooklyn, New York, where he faced gun violence, bullying, redlining, abusive policing policies, generational incarceration, and drug infestation. His choices in the face of such adversity landed him in prison with a 55 to life sentence. From a cell, he turned his life around and became a writer, curator, director, producer, social justice advocate, restorative justice circle keeper, youth counselor, and runner. Read More He is most known as “New York” on the Pulitzer Prize finalist and Dupont Award-winning podcast Ear Hustle. He’s a contributing writer for The Marshall Project, San Quentin News, and Current with freelance work in High Country News, Boston Globe, Stranger’s Guide, NBC Universal Academy, Business Insider, and many others. Rahsaan has appeared in several documentaries, including Q-Ball and 26.2 to Life. After which he decided to start making his own. The Sundance Institute and The Marshall Project awarded him a grant to direct and produce a short documentary film called Friendly Signs, which premiered at the San Francisco Documentary Film festivals. Rahsaan also produced, What These Walls Won’t Hold, directed by Adamu Chan, which won the San Francisco International Film Festival. W. Kamau featured Rahsaan in a United Shades of America episode—all while still in prison. Now on parole, he is the Executive Director of Empowerment Avenue, an organization that works to develop the careers of incarcerated writers, artists, journalists, and filmmakers pre-entry. He continues to co-host Ear Hustle, make films, and he’s on the boards of Initiative Justice, North Cal Society of Professional Journalists, and Their Stories Advisory Board.
Steven Rhashiyd Zinnamon
Steven Rhashiyd Zinnamon Sound Designer, Co Producer @EARHUSTLE About Artist Rhashiyd is a 57-year-old father of two – one son and a daughter. He has been incarcerated since 1995. Rhashiyd’s passion has always been rooted in music. Since is youth, he has used his gift with words to paint colorful portraits and snapshots of life through his lenses. Rhashiyd is an innovative visionary with a unique skillset, which he utilizes to reconfigure the narrative of how main- stream media portrays incarcerated men. Read More Rhashiyd is also a co-producer and sound designer for the critically acclaimed, award-winning podcast EARHUSTLE. He is a board member of Through The Bars, a Non Profit Organization that supports Restorative, and Social Justice: mentoring and training Incarcerated Men as well as Youth marketable skills such as Coding, Sound Design, Engineering, Production, Cinematography, Edit- ing, Script-Writing, and all other forms of content creation. He IS Music Direc- tor for The Artwork Initiative and a Co-Founder of Game4P.E.A.C.E.,as well as the Racial Justice Alliance. In 2005, Rhashiyd began to address the real issues that plagued his community as well as himself. “I wanted to know what made me tick. I wanted to know where my core beliefs stemmed from, and what made me think the way I think, and made the sort of decisions that I made. I wanted to know the ulti- mate question of how I got here.” This is when Rhashiyd decided to dedicate hims life to being a service to others, change and personal growth. In 2008, Rhashiyd began to work with At-Risk Youth and began to work with ju- venile diversion programs. In 2016, Rhashiyd was chosen out of 3,000 applicants to participate in the OMCP (Offender Mentor Certification Program), from which he graduated and became a Certified Alcohol and Other Drug Counselor in 2017. Rhashiyd has graduated and facilitated a plethora of Self-Help and Rehabilita- tive programs, including Y.O.P. (Youth Offender Program), Freedom to Choose, PEACEMAKERS Certification, P.E.P. (Peace Education Program), TIMELIST, S.A.A.G. (Self-Image Alignment Group), WESTCARE/OPTIONS Recovery Service, S.E.E.K. (Seeking to Educate Endangered Kids), O.M.C.P. (Offender Mentor Cer- tification Program), Parenting Mental Health Group, Depression Mental Health Group, Victims Impact, C.G.A. (Criminals and Gangmembers Anonymous), Free- dom and Choice, Life C.Y.C.L.E (Careless Youth Corrected By Lifers Experi- ences), F.B.B. (Fathers Behind Bars), B.R.A.G. (Balanced Re-entry Activity Group), Cage Your Rage, Alternatives to Violence. Rhashiyd continues to assist others now by providing opportunities to reconfigure the landscape through various outlets of media. “The most important thing we can do as responsible, accountable men is teach men how to become the best version of themselves, to go on to become successful men, with marketable skills. Portfolio Art Works
Anand Jon Alexander
Anand Jon Artist About Artist Upon Coming to America from India at 16 years old on a scholarship Anand Jon Alexander graduated from the prestigious Parsons School of Design/The New school for Social Research (New York City) and became an award-winning fashion designer. (FN1) including winning the Rising Star, Fashion Week of the Americas award , selected by Newsweek Who’s Next ? https://www.newsweek.com/authors/meghan-mccain and was also sponsored by George Armani. “A Visionary and a leader” said his associate Dean Tim Gunn ( of Project Runway) True to his Heritage Anand Jon’s distinct designs often incorporate a sensual spirituality promoting innovative environmental sustainability that’s being critically acclaimed as “functional luxury” (Women’s Wear Daily). Anand Jon had his unique fine art paintings featured at the New York Academy of Art, UCLA and sold at Sotheby’s auction house.As his celebrity brand got wall street funding. he was accused of serial assault.Following a racially tainted trial and wrongful conviction in Los Angeles (2008- 2009) Anand Jon went on to favorably resolve all of his overlapping cases in New York and Texas (2018) before returning with exculpatory evidence towards overturning his California verdicts. His case has been an essential part of, and is entitled to relief in 2024 under the groundbreaking Racial Justice Act, a theme we see in his Creations as well. http://www.indiajournal.com/met/activists-call-to-release-designer-anand-jon Podcast Read More Anand Jon became a self-taught singer/songwriter/musician during the 2020-22 covid lockdown and has already consulted for and being commissioned for film and television projects. He recently performed with musicambia.com Photo: petermerts.com Anand Jon was selected for the first of a Kind Masters Degree cohort with Cal State (2023-2025) with scholarship from the Department of Rehabilitation. As a resident of San Quentin Rehabilitation center Anand Jon became part of the Journalism guild, studied under Professor Drummond of Berkeley and helped as Creative Director for the artwork initiative as well as founded the Racial Justice Activist Coalition.
Jeffrey Isom
Jeffery Isom Credit PeterMerts.com Jeffery Isom Credit PeterMerts.com About Artist Jeff A. Isom was born in San Jose, CA, but raised in Coon Rapids, a suburb of Minneapolis, MN. Jeff is in the 20th year of a life sentence under California’s Three Strikes Law. While serving his sentence in San Quentin State Prison, he seeks to make living amends through his art. Jeff’s art has been featured at Marin Civic Center Bartolini Gallery, 9th Circuit Court of Appeals U.S. Courthouse, Eloise Pickard Smith Gallery, Santa Cruz, Marin County Fair, NIAD Annex Gallery, Richmond, California, Peace Flag Project, Public Policy Institute of California, San Francisco, San Francisco Airport Terminal, San Francisco Opera House Museum, Southern Poverty Law Center, University of Derby, England. He has contributed work to organizations such as Breast Cancer Awareness and the Southern Poverty Law Center and is looking to donate to other organizations. Read More Jeffrey A. Isom, 58, creates art for therapy, expressing emotions and venting frustrations. Art is a significant part of his rehabilitation, honoring those impacted by his crimes. A repeat offender with three strikes, he’s serving a life sentence. He envisions owning an art shop upon parole. Isom appreciates the positive impact of his art on others, contributing to good causes. He works at SQ’s Arts in Correction, connecting with both incarcerated and professional artists. Through teaching, he fosters positive relationships and healing in a stressful environment. Isom’s creations, including “Return to Nature,” reflect environmental concerns. He paints birds to raise awareness about endangered species and the impact of climate change. His ongoing work addresses Asian hate, inspired by a personal tragedy during the pandemic. Isom strives to spread awareness of tragedies and promote love, emphasizing that someone’s race should never justify a crime or murder. Portfolio Art Works Artist Jeffrey Allen Isom Jeffrey Isom Oil Painting photo credit Peter Merts Artist Jeffrey Isom Artist Jeffrey Allen Isom Load More End of Content.
Trust None
Trust None About Artist A world drastically changed and yet hope remained and art survived. Although it all seems temporary, unsettled, and always teetering on the verge of abandon. One of the feelings Trust None attempts to convey: the new world norm. Through the use of reimagined, familiar, and iconic figures, placed in thematic scenarios in an ongoing series of artistic releases. Trust None means something different to everyone. Portfolio Art Works Most Wanted – Trust None Tattoo Liberty – Trust None The Virgin of San Quentin – Trust None Three Dogs – Trust None