"By going through that experience, I realized just how much programs and spaces were needed, so I decided to dedicate this time in my life and the resources that I could generate in order to build a bridge to help the people in the community,"
"Mr. Wash was first arrested in 1996 and convicted in 1997, ultimately serving 21 years in prison for three nonviolent drug offenses that he didn't commit. He entered prison without knowing how to paint but picked it up quickly, drawing on his knowledge of construction and engineering work as well as his memories of making papier-mâché in his youth. He ended up teaching art in the prison system for 18 years, eventually rotating between three prisons."
Fulton Leroy Washington, known as Mr. Wash, was released in 2016 after a commutation and recognized a strong need for services for people returning from prison. He also identified a need for an art space for youth in Compton. He is developing the Art By Wash Studio & Community Center, a 13,000-square-foot campus in Compton, funded and driven by his time and resources. He served 21 years for nonviolent drug convictions he says he did not commit, learned to paint in prison, and taught art for 18 years across multiple prisons. The center aims to provide art education and practical reentry help and guidance.
Read at ARTnews.com
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