Beyond the Block

An Art Exhibition Created by Inmates at the Virginia Beach Correctional Center, Norfolk City Jail, and Hampton Roads Regional Jail

“Art can be therapeutic and transformative, both for the viewer and the person who created it. The Chrysler Museum is committed to presenting exhibitions and programs that appeal to diverse audiences. That includes traditional museum audiences and under-served audiences, such as people who are incarcerated and their families.” -Michael Berlucchi, Community Engagement Manager

The Chrysler Museum partners with the Virginia Beach and Norfolk Sheriff's Offices and the Hampton Regional to present works of art created by inmates at local jails.

To create these works, inmates used materials that are available to them inside the Correctional Centers, including "jail safe" pens with blue ink, candy, and paper provided by the Chrysler Museum of Art. The exhibition includes work that responds to objects from our collection as well as work that reflects on their lives and experiences.

Credit: Exhibition overview from museum website