In Its Third Year, the Changing the Course Art Exhibition Will Showcase Unique Pieces Created by Justice-Involved Individuals
MONTGOMERY, AL – The Alabama Bureau of Pardons & Paroles will host its annual signature event, Changing the Course: Art by the Currently & Formerly Incarcerated, on Tuesday, March 19 at the Alabama Department of Archives and History in Montgomery. Media, stakeholders, legislators and other interested parties are invited to attend this educational event featuring food, drinks, live music and amazing artwork by justice-involved individuals.
Attendees will also learn about the Bureau’s rehabilitation programs as well as the rehabilitative efforts of our event and community partners. Additionally, attendees can meet both artists and agency leaders and even participate in interactive artwork experiences.
The event is presented by the Alabama Bureau of Pardons and Paroles, Alabama Department of Corrections, Alabama Prison Arts + Education Project, Ingram State Technical College, Alabama Department of Archives and History, and Alabama Department of Mental Health. The presenting agencies also give special thanks to Troy University for their support and yearly contributions to the event.
Changing the Course began in 2022 under the vision of Director Cam Ward and other state agency leaders, who made it their goal to find productive ways to reduce recidivism in Alabama. Art therapy programs and art classes are a proven way to both reduce recidivism and improve the lives of those suffering with mental illness. Since 2022, attendees at each annual event have enjoyed a high turnout and an enriching experience.
See photos from last year’s event here. See last year’s video with event partners, partner programs, Bureau programs, interviews with artists and a tour of some of the art here.
WHO:
Speakers will include Alabama Department of Corrections Commissioner John Hamm, Ingram State Technical College President Annette Funderburk, Alabama Prison Arts + Education Project Director Kyes Stevens, ADAH Director Steve Murray, Alabama Department of Mental Health Commissioner Kim Boswell, and Alabama Bureau of Pardons and Paroles Director Cam Ward.
WHAT:
2024 Changing the Course Art Exhibition
WHEN:
Tuesday, March 19, 2024, 5-7:00 p.m.
WHERE:
Alabama Department of Archives & History
624 Washington Avenue
Montgomery, AL 36130