The Transformative Power of Art: Well-Being and Resilience in a Prison Arts Program

• In Event: Healing and Resilience Behind Bars

Abstract

Access to arts programming inside California prisons is expanding and showing important impacts across an array of outcomes. These programs are increasingly recognized for their potential to improve the mental and emotional well-being of individuals who are incarcerated and help build community within restricted prison environments. Emerging research underscores the role of art programming in fostering personal growth, resilience, and a sense of creativity and self-expression among participants. The current study investigates the relationship between participation in arts programming across 17 California prisons and participants’ well-being, resilience, and perceptions of creativity and expression. Using pre- and post-surveys with program participants, we assess changes in these domains as measured by validated scales and responses to open-ended questions. In addition to statistical analyses, we perform a thematic analysis of the open responses to examine the experiences of individuals. Our findings offer direction for the ongoing evaluation of transformative arts programming and its further development as an integral component of a holistic approach to wellness and rehabilitation within correctional settings.

Authors

• Shruti More, San Diego State University

• Kimberly R. Kras, San Diego State University

• Brian Heisterkamp, California State University, San Bernardino

• Annie Buckley, San Diego State University

• Ginny Oshiro, University of Southern California

• Frida Herrera, California State University, San Bernardino