PRISON JOURNALISM PROJECT

art direction
illustration
collage
graphic design
compassion & empathy
the prison journalism project is an independent journalism organization that aims to create the first nationwide network of prison journalists. between 2024–25, i was their art director, where i spent most of my time creating editorial illustrations and artwork to be paired with their stories. 

pjp provides a unique perspective on life within the walls of the american prison system. whether harrowing, poignant, or innocuous, every story from their expansive network of artists and writers inside contains an essential glimpse into a world of individuals who have often been marginalized and cast aside to the shadows of society. pjp strives to change that by eliminating stigma and focusing on the collective humanity of incarcerated people with compassion and empathy.

in collaboration with the editing staff and writers, i synthesize the core essence of a story and channel that into a visual piece. depending on the story, this can take on a linear, narrative lens, a series of collaged abstractions, or a discrete survey of key story elements. the goal is always to ensure each visual piece is immediately digestible while remaining sensitive and true to the writers’ intent.