Art for advocacy ‘Perceptions’ exhibit highlights the stories of people previously incarcerated

GANGGANG and the Marion County Re-Entry Coalition (MCRC) have collaborated to unveil the groundbreaking art exhibition “Perceptions,” which debuted for a two-day showing in the 10 East Arts Hub, Thursday, Feb. 29. The exhibition offers an intimate exploration of the reentry experiences and emotions of formerly incarcerated individuals. RELATED: New measure aims to reduce prison-to-homelessness pipeline “It is very important when we say we’re amplifying culture in order to identify what the culture of the city and community is. It is getting down to the truth and speaking on real stories,” said Jose Martinez, development coordinator for GANGGANG. “We would like for this to be a traveling exhibition because we do want to be able to reach other communities and people.” Through interactive visual art, the exhibit aims to destigmatize conversations surrounding reentry while shedding light on the personal development of those navigating life beyond bars. Martinez said he was very active in directing and helping their storytellers feel comfortable through conversations to shoot their photos. Perceptions: Previously incarcerated There were two artists who worked on the exhibition: Jake Gold, a photographer, often works with portraiture, and this is the first time he has showcased his work in an exhibition...