Each year, tourists visiting San Francisco make the journey to the must-see Alcatraz Island. Since it’s closing in 1963, the former penitentiary continues to intrigue people of all ages. There is also a huge fascination with the artwork of prison artists. This summer, the two subjects are being brought together at Alcatraz East Crime Museum. The new temporary exhibit, called “Alcatraz Art Escape,” will feature artwork created by incarcerated artists. The exhibit opens to the public on August 23, 2019 and will run through the Spring of 2020.
P.A.T.H
Alcatraz East Crime Museum has teamed up with P.A.T.H. (Prison Arts Touching Hearts) to make these artworks available to the public. The organization focuses on providing a voice for incarcerated artists. Their efforts help to support prison art programs and provide opportunities for artists to sell their work to support community causes. The exhibit will also include some never displayed Alcatraz artifacts. These objects include handcuffs from Alcatraz, a guard’s ID and prisoner roster pamphlet with handwritten notes. You can also see Al Capone’s rosary, as well as rare artwork made by an inmate while incarcerated at Alcatraz.
There are additional new artifacts that have recently been added to the museum, including:
- A collection of pieces from sketch artist Michael W. Streed, known as SketchCop. Throughout his career, Streed has used his skills to both catch criminals, as well as identify remains.
- Items have been added to the museum’s section on mass shootings, including the Las Vegas Route 91 Harvest Festival, Columbine High School, and Aurora Theater. New items include a backpack and school planner of a survivor of Columbine. You can also see items preserved from the memorials for Las Vegas victims.
About Alcatraz East
Alcatraz East is the most arresting crime museum in the United States! Guests of all ages can encounter a unique journey into the history of American crime, crime solving, and our justice system. Through interactive exhibits and original artifacts, Alcatraz East is an entertaining and educational experience for all ages. This family attraction is located at the entrance of The Island, located at 2757 Parkway, Pigeon Forge, TN.
For more information and to purchase tickets, visit: www.alcatrazeast.com.
