The Institute of Contemporary Art, Miami (ICA Miami) presents Moving Beyond Bars, a groundbreaking exhibition featuring monumental artworks and personal writings created by women incarcerated at the Florida Women’s Prison in Ocala, FL and men incarcerated at the South Dakota State Penitentiary, Sioux Falls, SD and the Mike Durfee State Prison, Springfield, SD. These residencies, supported by grants from the National Endowment for the Arts in 2023-24 and 2024-25, were led by dance/theater director, Suzanne Costello and visual artist, Ariadne Albright. The immersive exhibit highlights the power of creative expression as a means of reclaiming identity and preparing for reentry into society.
Through a combination of hanging murals, written reflections, video documentation, and an original soundscape, Moving Beyond Bars invites visitors to engage deeply with the lived experiences, humanity, and resilience of these women. Over a three-week intensive residency, 32 short-sentence inmates explored their personal narratives through movement, painting, drawing, and writing – focusing on identity, connection, and the women who have positively influenced their lives. The installation fosters meaningful connection between communities, bringing together people who might not otherwise share the same space to reflect on shared humanity through art.
Exhibition Dates: August 9-16, 2025
Gallery Talk / Panel Discussion: Opening Night – August 9 @ 5:00-7:00pm
Panelists: Suzanne Costello – Director of Moving Beyond Bars | Sophia Diehl – SPDT Administrator and Program Assistant
Moving Beyond Bars is part of ICA Miami’s ongoing commitment to community engagement and arts-based storytelling. This initiative not only brings visibility to underrepresented voices but also demonstrates the transformative potential of creative practices within correctional settings.
Support for Moving Beyond Bars is provided by Helen & Ed Nicoll.
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