Sewing the Seeds of Freedom
Norton, Kansas 2024
Designed and painted in collaboration with residents at the Norton Correctional Facility (a medium security prison in northwest Kansas), this mural in the “Chow” Hall is a reflection on the potential of nature and art to help transcend the walls of one’s circumstances. The sowing of seeds for the prison garden and the sewing (actually crocheting) of blankets and other items for those without homes frame the center panel which shows birds emerging from a stained-glass design, toward a hopeful future. This mural has a cousin in town, painted at the same time at The Haven, a place where relatives can stay when visiting the prison.
Tapestry of Compassion
Norton, Kansas 2024
Located at The Haven, a place where relatives can stay when visiting the Norton Correctional Facility, this mural is a continuation of the themes painted in a second “cousin” mural, titled, “Sewing the Seeds of Freedom,” at the prison’s “Chow” Hall. The projects, both led by Dave Loewenstein, were created at the same time as way of exploring connections between the two communities, including their shared geography and interconnected histories. Referring to the community crocheting projects led by prison residents, the Haven mural is designed as a flowing tapestry embroidered with images created by Norton participants. Birds seen in this mural pulling the tapestry skyward originate in the “Chow” Hall mural where they are seen lifting strands of yarn away from the prison, toward the city.
