While locked up for six years in federal prison, artist Jesse Krimes secretly creates monumental works of art, including an astonishing 30-foot mural made with prison bed sheets, hair gel, and newspaper. He smuggles out each panel piece-by-piece with the help of fellow artists, only seeing the mural in totality upon coming home. As Jesse’s work captures the art world’s attention, he struggles to adjust to life outside, living with the threat that any misstep will trigger a life sentence. Featuring visual artists Jesse Krimes, Russell Craig, Jared Owens, and Gilberto Rivera.

The film Art & Krimes by Krimes takes a hard look at the issues facing our justice system from systemic racism to recidivism and the far-reaching consequences of a criminal record. Following the 80-minute documentary, our panel of experts will reflect on the film itself and the state of our justice system–touching on the challenges facing returned citizens, the imbalances of the justice system, and how art is used within the prison system.