R. Ragels

"The land has always represented freedom to me. As an incarcerated artist, the landscape speaks as something lost and something to be regained. I don't paint the reality of my current surroundings–drab colors, concrete and steel, and harsh lights. Instead, I try to call into existence and onto my canvas the memories of the strength and beauty of the natural landscape and the wonders of a sky unmarred by umbrellas of artificial lights. Art is my channel to reconnect to the natural world. It reawakens in me times, places, people, and values that this unnatural environment continually tries to disconnect. I'm blessed to have the opportunity to paint. Here at Arkansas Valley Correctional Facility, we are fortunate to have a small hobby shop incorporated into the facility's recreation program. This space fosters a community of dedicated artists and craftsmen who chose to use their free time to create. I'm always amazed by the quality of the work flowing from this talent pool. It is a privilege to work beside these men, to exchange ideas, and to learn from them.”