Born in Redding and raised in Cottonwood, California, Grace currently resides in the Central California Women’s Facility at Chowchilla (CCWF). Grace was born with a natural artistic capability and is inspired by life. Through her own traumatic life experiences she has found healing through art. By believing in herself she has opened herself up to a world wide platform and creates paintings for others. Her artistic talent was recognized as she was selected to paint for the mural project at CCWF. The values instilled in her from a young age were to make a house a home and to embrace creativity.
Artist Statement
I create artwork that lives between fantasy and realism. I like to create political art with images that leaves the interpretation open for the viewer. Everything has meaning, but that meaning is up to each individual. I like to challenge preconceived notions with dazzling symbolism. I call my style Thematic Expressionism and Imaginative Realism.
I spend long hours visualizing, then do a pencil sketch, finally transfer that to canvas and paint using watercolor, acrylic, street paint and markers. Some of my first inspiration came from Vincent Van Gogh. My grandmother was a very talented artist who fed my creative spirit voraciously.
My materials are from the black market bartering system here in the prison. Given what we are allotted we are at a major disadvantage, so as artists we have to be creative, resourceful and willing to accept support from collaborative circles. I even use unconventional mediums like cosmetic make up.
My most recent artwork “The Idle Hour”, is a multi-media painting based on themes about my loss of freedom, resilience, love, and triumph over stereotypes and oppression of spirit.
Contact Information:
Grace Ward (#WG2089)
CCWF 506-22-3L
P.O. Box 1508,
Chowchilla CA 93610
Email via GettingOut: Grace Ward #WG2089/CDCR Central California Women’s Facility CCWF
