Events, Library, News Release

Prison Arts Project installation and panel discussion at Hayward Public Library

The Stack Extra

March 27, 2025

A sample of art work from the prison arts project

The Downtown Hayward Public Library is hosting a panel discussion titled “Exploring Art and Innocence” on Saturday, March 29, from 11 a.m. 

This panel discussion will highlight HPL’s Prison Arts Project display, a collection of art by institutionalized individuals from San Quentin Prison, that can be viewed on the 2nd floor of the library, through the end of March. 

The Prison Arts Project was started in 1977 and provides a haven for incarcerated artists to learn and create, to build bridges, and to help maintain connections with family. Art participants, it has been found, are less likely to have disciplinary problems in prison, and are more likely to be successful upon parole. 

This free program is part of the Library’s celebration of Arts Education month and is being offered in partnership with San Francisco Opera and Hayward Arts Council. Panelists on Saturday will include educators as well as former students of the Prison Arts Project. 

All are welcome.