Luis David Gonzalez - AS-0834
(Suave)

My name is Luis David Gonzalez. I was born on July 11, 1969 to a single mother, Maria Gonzalez. I grew up in the South Bronx, New York. My mother did the best, despite the poverty, to raise me and my five siblings in a stable entironment. In the sparse, tough neighborhood I did all the things that kids do to survive. By the time I was ten I had learned what a human being does when he has nothing to lose except his so ridiculously naked life.

Recognizing the negative influences in one's life does not excuse a person for his behavior. What it does is open the door to inner healing and creative power that is needed to have a future different from the past. I have done everything I can do to turn away from my past mistakes. I volunteer with programs that help youth at risk, tutor other inmates, work with the Mural Arts Program, am the President of L.A.C.E.O. (Latin American Culture Exchange Organization), and I paint.

Painting is the way I keep my heart alive. Prison is a cold, harsh place where all emotions are subdued - sincere contact is absent - humanity is void. I search in this world to find inspiration, and I use my painting to show the opposing forces of good and evil in my community. At times my paintings appear dark and menacing, but they also express a sense of hope.

I have been sentenced to life in prison. In Pennsylvania there is no parole for lifers. If a person stops for just one second to view my work, then a connection has been made between my world and theirs. Looking at my paintings the view can see I am no longer that young kid, I am a changed man. And I still have hope.

Artist's Statement

I am a lifer. I came to prison at the age of 16. In prison Art has been my Road Map for Life. Art has given me the opportunity to give back to my community in a positive way. Art has also given me the opportunity to be a voice for the voiceless and express myself. With my art I have a chance to help the youth understand the effect of our actions on our communities.
           
As you view my work, ask yourself, " Why?" Then look again, art doesn't use words to give easy answers. Art challenges us all to study the hard questions.
           
Through art we have the chance to come together, to connect, even though we don't know each other personally. As you view my work, you are connecting with me, and in doing so it gives me the sense that through Art we can come together to create a better world. I sincerely hope that viewers walk away with a sense of compassion, not for me, but for those in need, especially for Youth at Risk.

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