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A series of self-portraits (above) drawn by members of San Quentin’s Arts in Corrections program hangs in the gallery. The portraits are the product of classes taught by longtime volunteer Pat Maloney, a well-loved and highly respected artist who sadly passed away in 2019. Maloney
(standing, below right) found purpose in his connection with incarcerated artists, including Ben Chandler (seated). His artistic guidance and inspiration can be seen in Kevin O’Donnell’s pencil portrait of a sleeping baby (top right), the epitome of innocence.
lasting impressions
at Maloney dedicated 40 years of his life to teaching and mentoring incarcerated artists at San Quentin State Prison before his retirement in 2019. Maloney was one of the founders of San Quentin’s Arts in Corrections program, a creative co-op sponsored by the nonprofit William James Association, a San Quentin arts benefactor since 1977. Incarcerated artists who had the privilege of working with Maloney describe him as very caring and a great listener who liked to create art inspired by holistic aboriginal themes — mind, body and nature. “Maloney loved his job so much that he worked for a decade without pay,” said incarcerated journalist 6
WALL CITY
Juan Haines, who interviewed Maloney in 2019. Maloney regrettably passed away not long after he retired, leaving behind a legacy of imagination and originality that lives on behind these walls, especially in the Arts in Corrections program. The program has seen many incredible artists come and go over the years, and each has left his mark in some way. Some masterpieces created by the prison’s artists have even been showcased at museums and generated great interest from Smithsonian historians. In 2014, visitors to the notorious Alcatraz Island were able to view an exhibit displaying San Quentin artists. The exhibit was displayed from February through August of
WINTER 2022 – 2023
