From Cell To Society: The Power of Resilience

From Cell To Society: The Power of Resilience is a project that uses immersive design to examine the resilience of formerly incarcerated individuals and challenge society’s perceptions of life after prison. At the center of the installation is a prison cell structure made from black PVC pipe, complete with a metallic silver-painted cardboard toilet and a narrow bed– stark reminders of confinement. Surrounding the cell are printed newspaper-style articles sharing the powerful personal stories of those who have endured incarceration and built meaningful lives afterward. Posters call for systemic change, highlighting harsh statistics, racial disparities, and the difficulty of reentry into society. Photographs of the individuals post-release serve as a contrast to their mugshots, showcasing their transformation and humanity. 

This project was created through an iterative design process that involved research, interviews, writing, fabrication, and layout design. Every visual and structural element was carefully considered to create both tension and empathy– inviting viewers to sit with the uncomfortable truths of incarceration while witnessing the potential of renewal. 

As you move through this space, I invite you to pause. Take no more than a minute to sit across from the artist– a designer who has lived this reality– and reflect. A notebook is provided for you to leave your thoughts, whether affirming or critical, as part of this ongoing dialogue about justice, dignity, and the power of second chances.