In a room that is larger than most in South Central Correctional Center in Licking, Missouri, a group of men has registered for a creative project that extends beyond the prison walls. For about 40 hours a week they cut and sew quilts for children in foster care or with a disability, sewing lively, patchworks with a pattern and finding joy and comrading.
A short documentary from Netflix visits The Men and Showcasat South Central Correctional Center, a group of men has offered itself for a creative project that extends further than prison walls. Ees their brightly lit space, complete with machines and a wall that full with soft fabrics. Gazing in their beloved enclave for expression and solidarity, “The Quilters“Breaks down what many are involved in creative programs from the inside say: that art is a fundamental lifeline in the midst of such a dehumanizing environment.
As a man in the trailer shares of the film: “All other guys don’t even have an idea how we feel here … This is what brings me to the outside. If I do this, I don’t even be here.”
“The Quilters” is now streaming Netflix. You may also be interested in a look at the historic Faith Ringgold work on Riker’s Island and JR’s collaboration with the men of Tehahapi. (Via Kottke))
