Better late than never

Snow Goose" by Scott North; PA

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

Yes, I know…not only have I not posted a blog in over four months, but January 1st has already come and gone.  Like the age old adage…”better late than never”!

Still, my apologies for taking so long.

The delay in posting a blog since last September 2016? Mainly due to having been incredibly busy preparing for two major P.A.T.H. art events. The first being “ANIMALIA MUSICALE: A Chorus of Critters” at the Marin Center in San Rafael, CA with an Opening Reception date of Wednesday, February 1st from 6-8pm. Please refer to the Events section of this website for more info.  The second being the upcoming May-June 2017 “ART ESCAPE AT ALCATRAZ” event, which has taken up a great deal of my time.   For more info on the latter, please refer to “Call to Artists” page on the website. 

Nonetheless, I very much wanted to wish you, your loved ones and friends a very Healthy, Happy, Prosperous, Joyful and Creative 2017! 

Blessings,

Leslie, Director

GEORGIE PORGIE, PUDDIN’ AND PIE

"Georgie Porgie, Puddin' and Pie Was a guard in years gone by; (At) Alcatraz he met the worst, Fred and Joseph were the first".

I recently had the opportunity and pleasure to meet *George deVincenzi *at the Mill Valley Depot Cafe. Even though I had originally offered to meet hm in San Francisco, George insisted on driving over the Golden Gate Bridge to meet me in my hometown of Mill Valley.

We found a table inside the Mill Valley Depot cafe (would have sat outside but it was misty and chilly from the fog that had not yet lifted) and sat and talked for about an hour. George is a lovely man - 90 years old going on 60! A thoroughly charming, interesting and well versed man with a lifetime of fascinating experiences and true stories to tell and share.

George expressed a possible interest n participating P.A.T.H.'s ALCATRAZ art show slated for sometime next year (date TBD by the Art in the Parks Conservancy of San Francisco). So, keep your eye open for date confirmation.

In the meantime, George wrote a book titled MURDERS ON ALCATRAZ, which is available for purchase at the Alcatraz gift store, as well as Amazon and other online sources.

NOTE: Reference to Fred and Joseph in my revised version of the classic children's poem refers to a physical altercation that took place between two inmates during Mr. DeVincenzi's first 15 minutes of guard duty on his first day of work in 1950 at Alcatraz. That altercation that George rushed in to interrupt resulted in the murder of one Joseph Barsock.

Blessings, Leslie, Director

THE BIGGEST ROOM IN THE UNIVERSE

Dear Friends ...... I just HAD to share this true story with you. It’s a little longer than a usual blog, but well worth reading! Received this from my friend and former co-volunteer at San Quentin State Prison. ENJOY! Leslie

“Earlier this week as I headed for the frozen food section at Trader Joes, honing in on a specific item, I saw a brown envelope laying smack-dab on top of my edamame. "OPEN ME" it said. I picked it up and turned it over. "Yes You!" it said. Oh goodie! Trader Joes is hiding envelopes around the store with secret $5 coupons inside! But no. Instead I found a folded up piece of paper, *handwritten not copied, *in different colored crayon, which you can read below.

It was a classic Candid Camera moment with me looking around to see who was watching me. Did someone leave this just for me? Was it a friend who saw me in the store? An employee? Where was the camera? But I was the only one in that aisle -- pretty unusual for a busy Trader Joes!

Needless to say,* I* L O V V V V V V E D finding this note on top of *the one thing* I was buying from the freezer that day! And I needed that message, too. Which has me wondering how I can "Pay it Forward" by leaving anonymous little notes for a stranger to find. Just the thought makes my heart feel good.

A perfect way to end this story is to relay a conversation I had yesterday with one of the inmates I volunteer with at San Quentin. He was wondering if any of his work with other inmates was making a difference and if they were even hearing his good advice. I told him about The Note In The Freezer and asked him if he remembered any little tidbits from long ago that someone might have told him. Maybe even as a throw-away line? After thinking a minute, Kevin shared that his son, who is now 30, still remembers something that Kevin used to tell him when the son was 4 or 5 years old. Namely, the answer to the question *"What is the biggest room in the Universe?"* is "The Room for Improvement."

You can think about that answer any way you like, but the reality of that story is that we are all farmers. Farmers who sow seeds. Seeds we may never see sprouting, but we sow them nonetheless! Like it or not. I love the thought of being a Farmer who sows inspiring/good/fun/helpful/delightful seeds for others to find. How about you?”

Sending Blessings from the Universe for YOU! - Susanne M. Karch

ART CONTEST WINNERS - IT'S A TIE!

This past February, I was introduced to Suza Lambert Bowser - Editor of XfelonINK who invited me to participate on a panel of judges for their Spring 2016 edition juried art contest event. The contest submissions would include art, poetry, short fiction, short non-fiction, letters and heartfelt opinions from prisoners, ex-prisoners and their families alike. Not only did I agree, but I also invited another dear longtime, award-wining artist friend of mine - Emilya Padlowski of Connecticut to get involved, as well.

Artwork was judged on a point grade scale of 1-5 based on originality, creativity, skill set and workmanship, overall appearance, composition (balance/perspective/shading/texture), use of available materials and subject matter.

I am proud to present two winners who came in tied for 1st Place Prize. A HEARTY CONGRATULATIONS goes out to both:

Santiago Duran; Ironwood State Prison, CA (Work titled "Marilyn") and Jorge Granados; Pelican Bay State Prison, CA (Work titled "Chloe")

Also, on pages 23-24 of the Spring 2016 issue, you'll find an interview by Ms. Bowser re: my background and involvement with inmate artists and non-profit P.A.T.H.

Click here to download a FREE pdf file of their inaugural Fall 2015 issue.

And, to learn more about XelonINK magazine (voice for prisoners - both inside and outside the razor wire): 600 F Street, Ste 3, #711, Arcata, CA 95521 www.xfelonink.com

Golden Gate Audubon Society Features Keith Harward's Bird Artwork!

Not wanting to solely rely on The Innocence Project's social media team to get the word out about Keith A. Harward's situation and P.A.T.H.'s current fundraising efforts for Keith - see here for more information - I decided to contact both local and national ornithological societies and clubs.

Lo and behold, the Golden Gate Audubon Society in Berkeley, CA picked up on it. Thanks to Ms. Ilana DeBare - Communications Director for their organization, who worked with me to edit and tighten up an article I wrote, they were kind and generous enough to post an article on their blog website.

The professional limited edition giclee prints of Keith's bird artwork (16 images to choose from) are for purchase. They are gorgeous prints, too- rich colors and textures.

For more information, please feel free to contact me.

Blessings,

Leslie, Director

PS: Upon His Freedom After 33 Years in Prison For A Murder He Didn't Commit, Keith Harward gets epic tattoo.

Photo Credit: Jason Flom

NAMEDROPPING AT THE FORTUNE SOCIETY

This past May 15th at the Castle Gardens, 625 W. 140th Street, NYC, NY, FORTUNE SOCIETY founder David Rothenberg, reminisced about his long career as theatrical publicist and producer. The Fortune Society began in 1967 when David Rothenberg produced the play “Fortune in Men’s Eyes”, which captured the harsh realities of living in prison in such a way that it mesmerized the audience and generated interactive dialogue and public discussion.

I happened to be on the East Coast and had the opportunity to meet John Runowicz – Director of Creative Programs – the week before while accompanied by my longtime friend, Diana. But, because I was in Florida at the time of the Castle event, I asked Diana to cover the story and take pics to share.  So, she rounded up her husband and good friend, Leeza, and here’s what she had to say about the event:

David did a lot of “name dropping” in the most tasteful way as he told the packed room at the Castle about his interesting career in PR/Theatre/working with esteemed actresses including Betty Davis, Eartha Kit, Peggy Lee (and his least favorite Lauren Bacall) as a very young man then moving on to Liz Taylor and Richard Burton (not to mention the famous football player turned actor Jim Brown and many many more). He explained the genesis of the Fortune Society, his own ignorance about the horrors of prison and need for prison reform and how he came to produce the show about a young prisoner's gang rape and inability to come back into society even after 20 years. Eventually, David moved from "name dropping" to his running for office (City Council) and losing (having lots of good things to say about the first Governor Cuomo) to the Fortune Society and his mission to educate us all that prison isn't the answer to help the men and women who have ended up there (each for his /her own personal reasons) move beyond those restrictive walls.

David drew a huge round of applause before, during and at the end of his dynamic passionate memoir about following his heart's mission. Leeza felt David's "goodness", and I personally walked away feeling like I can find my next phase of life's work if I listen to my heart the way David Rothenberg did. Thank you so much for including me on your visit to the Fortune Society. I feel like doors can open for all of us!

Diana Bahn

Blessings,

Leslie Lakes, Director

HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY!

MOTHERS ARE SPECIAL by Anonymous

There is no love like a mother’s love, no stronger bond on earth Like the precious bond that comes from God, to a mother when she gives birth.

A mother’s love is forever strong, never changing for all time And when her children need her most, a mother’s love will shine.

God bless these special mothers, God bless them every one For all the tears and heartache, and for the special work they’ve done.

When her days on earth are over, a mother’s love lives on Through many generations, with God’s blessings on each one.

Be thankful for our mothers, for they love with a higher love From the power God has given, and the strength from up above

Drawing of baby by Eusebio Ysaguirre, 2016 Drawing of Mother Wolf and Pup by Pete Zarogoza, 2016

A SHORT PATH TO ART

On April 20th, a warm sunny, Spring evening, people climbed the steps, walked across the wide open front patio and through the massive front doors of the First Presbyterian Church in San Rafael, CA where the Opening Reception for the current P.A.T.H. art fundraising event/exhibit took place. It was a lovely affair.

P.A.T.H. partnered with The First Presbyterian Church of San Rafael to benefit The Short Elementary School in this special fundraising effort.

Musician, Daniel Berkman played the Kora Harp from which the strains of this beautiful and interesting African stringed instrument filled the chapel venue space. It added a wonderful dimension and experience to all the artwork on display.

The Mill Valley Middle School Chamber Orchestra (young musicians from the ages of 11-13 and under the musical instruction and supervision of Music Director, Phoebe Dong), put on a live one half hour concert comprised of classical music selections. (See below if interested). They did a great job! Everyone who attended was duly impressed with their musical talents. P.A.T.H. wholeheartedly thanks them for their devoted participation so that other kids can benefit from funds received to help build and provide art, science and music programs.

And, last but not least, P.A.T.H. thanks all the incarcerated artist who so generously donated their original artwork for exhibition and sale purposes.

The art will continue to be up on display and available for sale through Friday, May 21st. Please enjoy all the photo images, and if you have any questions, please ask!

Music Program:

1. Tango Mariana - Joseph Compello
2. Spring Breezes (based on a Taiwanese Melody), arranged by Richard Meyer
3. Brandenburg Concerto No. 2 - first movement J. S. Bach/arranged by Merle Isaac
4. Symphony No. 25 - Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart/arranged by Thomas LaJoie
5. In the Company of Angels - William Holfeldt
6. Eine Kleine Nachtmusik - Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart/arranged by Merle Isaac
7. Libertango - Astor Piazzola/arr. by James Cusik

Blessings,

Leslie Lakes, Director

FREE AS A HUMMINGBIRD!

Today is historic and cause for major celebration. Because, today, former sailor, Mr. Keith Harward will be released and go home! Yesterday, 4/7, Keith was read the writ of actual innocence by the VA. Supreme Court and released from prison. Keith's freedom is due in large part by the assistance of the team at the INNOCENCE PROJECT in NYC. They took on his case and won!

Tragically, he was wrongly imprisoned for 33 years for the 1982 slaying of a Newport News, VA man and the rape of his wife. Fortunately, recent DNA testing by the Virginia Department of Forensic Science identified not Keith, but another sailor by the name of Jerry L. Crotty who was a shipmate of Harward's on the USS Carl Vinson at the time of the crime.

It is so fitting that Keith is now free as the birds he drew. Keith is an artist who loves birds, and it is through purchasing a beautiful pastel drawing of a Goldfinch atop thistle and clover that I acquired through the Fifth Annual Inmate Art Auction sponsored by the Fortune Society in NYC in 20015, that I first "met" Keith. To find out more, read this article.

More to come re: a possible fundraising effort for Keith. So, stayed tune.

Blessings, Leslie, Director

THE COUPLES GAME AT COYOTE RIDGE

One of the incarcerated artists who I write to is currently fashioning a one-of-a kind, 10" x14" detailed and intricately color beaded piece depicting a scene of the last Native American Indian to leave Alcatraz (during the Native American Indian Occupation on the island). He (Timothy) also engages his time and creative efforts in organizing and creating all the decorations for special monthly events at Coyote Ridge Correction Center (WA). The events can be about holidays, religious and/or cultural events. Last September they even had a pow-wow.

The attached photo images are ones that Timothy sent me of the recent Valentine's Day event that he and some other inmates organized. I wrote and told him that I was very impressed, and that they could surely get work in the party/event planning /decorating business once released.

Pic descriptions:

Both bought and hand made papier-mache teddy bears for door and game prizes.

Picture of Table Settings (handmade paper roses, place mats and candy corn/"Hershey's kisses.

A view of the room before the guests/visitors arrive at the Prison Facility

Cloth gift bags full of beauty products (for the ladies). A total of 87 bags were made by Timothy and Jason. The cloth bags are reversible, too!

Banner that was made designed after the "Newlywed Game Show"

Contestants and the winning couple. CUTE! Note: faces are blackened out to protect the privacy of the individuals.

Enjoy!

Blessings, Leslie, Director

SPRING SONNET

Wishing you a beautiful Spring!

SPRING SONNET

Allegro Springtime is upon us. The birds celebrate her return with festive song, and murmuring streams are softly caressed by the breezes. Thunderstorms, those heralds of Spring, roar, casting their dark mantle over heaven, Then they die away to silence, and the birds take up their charming songs once more.

[From The Four Seasons by Antonio Vivaldi, 18th Century]

Artwork by Manuel R. Sanchez; Colored Pencil Drawing

Blessings, Leslie, Director

For The Love of Pit Bulls... and Other Beautiful Animals

Worst of the Worse?  The “Al Capone” of dogs?

Did you know that Pit bulls used to be a favorite American breed in the early half of the 20th century?  During World War I, Pit Bull images were plastered on army recruitment posters, and several Pit Bulls went on to become famous in the American military, as well.  If you’re old enough, you'll remember “Petey” as the canine Pit Bull sidekick in the “Little Rascals”/ “Our Gang” comedies.  Also, there was Buster Brown, and his canine cohort, Tige – a friendly Pit Bull terrier who, along with Buster, served as mascot for the Brown Shoe Company.  

And, let’s not forget, the famous and iconic RCA Victor image of a dog and a gramophone.  Guess what kind of dog that was?   Yep!  A Pit Bull terrier.

Before the mid-80s, stories of pit bull attacks were practically non-existent.  But, like with any other breed of dog (or children for that matter) when left in the wrong hands, and/or with the wrong upbringing and training… havoc can wreak lose.  But, when shown tenderness and firm, yet gentle respectful training, these dogs can be the friendliest, most loving, protective and loyal dogs anyone can be blessed to have as a companion in one’s home.  

Pete Zarogoza knows.  And, Pete LOVES Pit Bulls.  Pete loves lots of other wild animals, too.  His artwork clearly shows it as he celebrates these beautiful creatures; whether meticulously drawing them on paper, or on large over-sized, white T-Shirts, Pete definitely has a way with a pen.  

Please enjoy this sampling of Pete’s artwork which has graced a few of the past P.A.T.H. shows. Just click on the first image, which will bring you to the next, then the next…and the next.

Enjoy!

Blessings,

Leslie, Director

ROOM

My husband and I watched a fascinating, powerful and emotionally charged film titled ROOM. It was very well produced and directed with exquisite and profound performances by the entire cast, not to mention the little boy is amazing! Held captive for years in an enclosed space, a woman (played by Brie Larson) and her 5-year-old son (played by Jacob Tremblay) finally gain their freedom, allowing the boy to experience the outside world for the first time.

There are a lot of parallels between what occurred in this film and as to what men and women in SHU - Segregated or Solitary Housing Unit - experience. The only difference is that the woman in this film had been abducted, raped and imprisoned in a small windowless room; held captive and controlled as a sex slave for a period of seven years. Still, the psychological affects, and how the mind and spirit does what it needs to in order to survive and overcome the trauma of confinement in a world so small without contact with the outside world....is similar to what the those in SHU experience.

Art is vitally important to the men in SHU. It allows them to escape the confines of the enforced physical imprisonment into a creative world of no bounds.

Here is a drawing of a SHU cell created by artist, Adrian Andrade. The average SHU cell measures only 6' x 10'. Please also check out the details of this drawing by clicking on the first image, which will bring you to the next, then the next, then the next.

*"I have been drawing since I was a kid, but I really started to pick it up in juvenile hall...it's always been my positive outlet, one of the few things no one, not this place, can take away from me. Art saved my life...I hope to share the message. It's not about what you don't have, but what you do with what you have - through my art. From all of us behind the walls, we thank you for giving us a voice" *- Adrian Andrade

Blessings,

Leslie, Director

Coffee by any other name is...........

ESPRESSO EXPRESSIONS!

What can I say? I'm a coffee drinker, and I always look forward to that first cup of fresh ground, fresh brewed java in the morning upon rising.

But, consider other uses for coffee other than drinking it. Mr. Jeremy Hammill has, and he's done so with the panache and skill of the most talented barista.

Since Mr. Hammill does not have access to regular commercial art supplies that other prisons make available, he creates a makeshift painter's brush (formed from his own hair and a tightly wadded and twisted toilet paper - not to worry...unused!), and makes his own paint by pulverizing the coffee grinds and adding hot water to the desired consistency and density of color for his small paintings. By only using coffee and colored pencils does he create these delightful pieces of art. Shading with coffee and incorporating what is called negative or white space lends to a greater dimension and depth to his animal subjects.

Please enjoy all nine pieces of work displayed here - all are made with coffee except for one which is a sweet pencil drawing of a cat. Just click on the first image and it will take you to the next, then the next and the next.

Blessings,

Leslie, Director

HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY!

I received this charming colored pen drawing by Gilbert R. Loza, CA and immediately thought of sharing it with everyone for Valentine's Day.

It was inspired by my recounting of how several months ago, my husband released a poor frightened juvenile raccoon from a trap that someone had set up. While the humane Have a Heart trap was intended to capture some one's sick pet cat who had gone hiding underneath their house, it managed to attract a lone young raccoon who came around looking for food.

And, since the artist - Mr. Loza - knows how much we LOVE animals, he thought I'd enjoy receiving this hand drawn and original image. And, I do! Hope you do, too!

Be kind. Be patient, Be compassionate. Be respectful.

Wishing you a very HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY!

PS In honor of our two kitty girls (Nina and Simone) named after the late legendary jazz artist herself, enjoy this fun Nina Simone Claymation video. Beautiful song by Nina Simone.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eYSbUOoq4Vg

Blessings,

Leslie, Director

FUTURE K-9 ART EXHIBIT

Celebrating the Service of K-9 Dogs I thought that it would be a great idea to have a show of artwork by incarcerated artists where the monies raised would benefit trained K-9 dogs; whether in service to police, military, rescue, etc.

I knew that it could be a completely contradictory, provocative and controversial proposal to those who are currently incarcerated, but these dogs need protection, too against threatening and gun wielding people. As it turns out, approx 90% of the inmate artists I work with have given me a thumbs up for this future project.

While other fundraising art shows are planned for the near future (one in April and another for the Fall), I just had to share this heart warming pencil drawing that I recently received, which was created for the K-9 show by artist, Larry Viera, CA.

May it warm your heart as it did mine.

Blessings,

Leslie, Director

A Winter Peony

It's always a pleasure - and exciting - when I receive donated artwork pertaining to a specific themed show. But, on occasion, I'll receive a completely unanticipated, thoughtful handmade art card. Art from the heart. Art that simply and genuinely expresses appreciation of friendship.

This drawing of a red peony was created by by Henry L. Albanez. Henry used black pen and colored pencils on drawing paper.

What a beautiful thing to receive during the cold grey of winter. It reminds me that Spring is not far off.

Peonies …

Apposite blossoms – the bold

Archetypes of grace.

Enjoy!

Blessings,

Leslie, Director

FEATURING ART OF KEITH HARWARD

With the start of this brand new year, it's my intention to regularly feature the works of various artists whose artwork delights the eyes, brings a smile to one's face, causes one to pause and reflect and/or to see the world in a different way.

For your enjoyment is a small collection (nine drawings total - just scroll from one to the next!) of primarily colored pencil drawings by Keith Harward of Virginia.

As you can see, Keith loves birds. But, on occasion, he will draw other animals upon my request including two wonderful drawings of a female brindle Greyhound I used to have named Sonya Rosa. Keith caught her "roaching" perfectly. Roaching is the term used for when a greyhound lies on its back with its paws up in the air in this high chested position. To see images of Keith's bird artwork and to place orders, please check out the Freedom Fundraising page. 

Enjoy!

Blessings,

Leslie Lakes, Director

HAPPY NEW YEAR 2016!

What better way to WISH you a brand NEW YEAR than to share with you some pics of a wonderfully handcrafted Wishing Well by incarcerated artist, Carlitos Ramirez.

It measures 6-1/2 x 3-1/2" x 3-12 with a little hand crank to one side that rotates and manually elevates and lowers the silver bucket up and down the well. It also has cut out openings on each side of the slanted top of the well to insert and show off your favorite small photos or artwork. So much fun!

My wish for P.A.T.H. is for a fruitful year of exciting art exhibits and successful fundraising events. What's your wish?

WISHING YOU A HAPPY NEW YEAR 2016!

God bless you all!

Leslie, Director

HOLIDAY GREETINGS!

Wishing you a Merry Christmas, and a Happy New Year!

It's been only a short nine months since P.A.T.H. was originally conceived and founded. Yet, we've already managed to put on two worthwhile fundraising art exhibits, which would not have been possible if not for the generous donations of artwork by so many wonderfully warm hearted, generous in spirit and talented incarcerated artists who chose to participate.

May the New Year 2016 be filled with compassion, promise, freedom of creative expression, rehabilitation, education, growth and benevolence toward these inmates and their families, as well to all those in the community in need of assistance, and who benefit from P.A.T.H.'s fundraising events.

From the bottom of my heart, I thank you again and again.

Blessings,

Leslie Lakes, Director

Note: Adorable Santa puppy drawing by Gustavo Stanko