Our Mission

Justice Arts Coalition is a platform for people with lived experience of imprisonment. By amplifying their artistic expression and through JAC’s coalition building, we challenge mass incarceration and reimagine a more just future.

what we do

Resource Library

We provide a national resource directory and library online for artists, advocates, and organizations that work at the intersection of art and justice. 

Art Portfolios

We work to publish and maintain hundreds of artists' portfolios online filled with their best work.

Artwork Archive

All JAC artists have the option of sending their work to us in order to store and digitize it joining the large collection. 

Freedom Showcases

We host events to provide feedback on the work we receive. These interactive sessions invite participants to engage directly with the artwork created by artists. More than exhibitions, these gatherings create dynamic spaces for honest exchange, collaborative critique, and meaningful connections. 

Art as Advocacy

We advocate for policy reforms mandating creative programs in prisons and champion the return of incarcerated artists to come home.

Exhibitions + Features

We work with artists to showcase their talent to the world. We’re currently deepening our impact by following the lead of artists and exploring cohort and residence-style programming initiatives. Stay tuned. 

Meet the Team

  • She/Her | Co-Director

    Erin is an artist and community organizer who’s cultivated her practice and service to liberation since 2013.  She received her BFA in Sculpture from Georgia State University.  She has contributed to the development and success of numerous art programs and exhibitions. Erin has worked in the political realm with organizations like, Working Family Parties to social movement coalitions including, Movement For Black Lives.

    As the Creative Arts Director, Erin continues her work at the intersection of art and justice to support and amplify the voices of those most affected by the carceral system. She will disrupt systems of oppression through creativity until we are free.

  • They/She | Co-Director

    They work with incarcerated loved ones, staff, donors, and media to share stories that address carceral harm and nurture healing. Previously, Shayna was an organizer focusing on prison and policing reform with ACLU Hawai’i and as a legislative aide to lawmakers in Hawai’i and Wyoming. She has nearly a decade of experience in advocacy with a focus on LGBTQ rights, prison reform, and reproductive justice having served as a board member with Wyoming Equality, NARAL Wyoming, and Wyoming Tribune Editorial Board. 

Meet the board

  • Treasurer

    Kimberly Nelson is a Spiritual Life Coach and Facilitator who has spent her career in service to her community. Her passion is people and she is committed to exemplifying love by facilitating learning, change, growth, and evolution. She strives to honor the humanity of those impacted by the carceral system, which drives her work with JAC and like organizations.

  • Executive Committee Liaison


    Susan is a poet, writer, and advocate who brings extensive experience in nonprofit board service, event planning, and community outreach. Her personal experience with incarceration has shaped her commitment to social justice, equity, and accessibility. Susan’s vision aligns closely with JAC's mission, and she looks forward to contributing her skills and passion to the organization’s growth.

  • Board President

    Isaac is a Multidisciplinary Visual Artist, Journalist, and CEO of Isaac’s Quarterly (IQ), where he merges art and advocacy to drive transformative change. Isaac’s leadership experience spans board and committee service, community engagement, and advocacy, including his role as Chairperson of the Human Services Committee for Community Board 11 of Manhattan. He brings a wealth of strategic insight, planning, and negotiation skills to JAC, shaped by his personal understanding of the prison and reentry systems.

  • Vice President


    Originally from San Antonio, Texas, Brett is a talented artist who has recently returned home from a federal facility in Ft. Worth, Texas. His deep love for art fuels his passion for supporting system-impacted artists, having discovered art as a coping mechanism early in his incarceration. Brett has been instrumental in providing empowerment and opportunity for incarcerated artists through his dedication and vision for the organization.

  • Secretary
    Casper is the Director of A.B.O. Comix, a collective focused on supporting queer and trans incarcerated artists. With his unique style and deep commitment to documenting the stories of marginalized communities, Casper brings his creative leadership and advocacy skills to JAC. He has a passion for bringing visibility to justice-involved artists and amplifying their voices through artistic expression.

Contact us

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