Get off “THE ROCK”

Hubby and I ventured out to the west coast for a few days before Porter arrives.  Most of the trip would be focused on various breweries, especially those we can’t get in Indy.  Tons of fun for a pregnant lady.

Smile for the camera, ugh.
Smile for the camera, ugh.

Alcatraz

Before we hit all the breweries, we toured Alcatraz.  When visiting a new city I tend to avoid the overly tourist stuff and opt for more local based things.  However, I love historical things so a tour of THE ROCK was a great fit.  The audio tour they have gave loads of information and perspective on what it was like to live on this cold island as a prisoner and worker.

Hubby is standing in solitary confinement.  The cell is SOOO small.
Hubby is standing in solitary confinement. The cell is SOOO small.

Here are some other highlights from the tour.  I took note of the details the prison still holds.

Alcatraz dining hall floor
Worn floor in the dining hall at Alcatraz
Very worn tile near the kitchen.
Very worn tile near the kitchen.
A screen on a random door.
A screen on a random door.

The end of the tour housed an amazing collection of art from prisoners in San Quentin prison nearby.  Their pieces were complex and awe inspiring.  The artists are apart of the William James Association’s Prison Art Project.  Couldn’t imagine life in a prison but this is a wonderful outlet and can improve the quality of life for an incarcerated person.  In 2003 most of the budget was cut however, the program still lingers due to donations from the William James Association.  Here are some of the works showcased in this exhibit.

Charcoal on paper, looks like a photograph.
Charcoal on paper, looks like a photograph.
Oil painting...beautiful.
Oil painting…beautiful.
Trippy prints
Trippy prints

Here is a photo of the artists in the exhibit.  I doubt they teach sewing in a prison, but am intrigued by this project.  Prison should be about rehabilitation and redemption.  This offers an opportunity to build a skill and self-esteem.

alcatraz prison art project