This 33 page zine showcases the poetry created for the exhibition. Designed by Miye Sugino
California Prison Industry Authority (CALPIA) sheets are made by prisoners for prisoners. Many will hang their sheet across the bunk, to create makeshift curtains and provide the illusion of privacy in their personal space. It's common practice to paint and decorate bedding. Some will pay heavily for artists to create designs.
I painted a letter to my bed on a new CALPIA sheet. I used a paperclip end for fine lines, and a tiny paint brush for larger lines. A hair dryer was used to "heat set" the paint so that the sheet can be washed without bleeding or fading. I painted the sun and moon using Zentangle art to symbolize how I use my sheet for both sleeping at night and privacy in the day. The tree with few leaves shows how this place can destroy us, and those who are well grounded with good roots can survive.
As I started reflecting on my culture, I could only think of what had the largest impact from generation to generation. Our ancestors were instructed to keep silent and put their heads down; this was a survival mechanism. They instilled this in us, too. Now I understand the significance of my voice and creative abilities. I will continue to sharpen my skills as a disruptive innovator, sketching my candid thoughts and feelings onto a blank canvas. I will use different techniques to be heard.