The inspiration for the work of Art for Justice came from the girls with whom I worked at Sleighton School, a Residential Placement Center in Delaware County, Pennsylvania. I remember Nadine, Andrea, Mary, Loretta, Dawn, Phyllis, Diane, Charlene, and especially, Henrietta, who died from burns suffered in a fire she set while she was locked in a room on a restricted unit.

I also dedicate Art for Justice to my father, Daniel Kirk, who taught me to "Look out for the person who turns to you in need, learn to recognize that individual and give him or her your kindness and friendship. "My father challenged his children to "Preserve the miracle that creates friends between two people." Father told me to look for Miracles in my life.

INVOLUNTARY COMMITMENT
TO A MENTAL HOSPITAL
While I was working at Sleighton School, my Father, an attorney, became debilitated by schizophrenia. Twice he was involuntarily committed to Haverford State Mental Hospital, confined to a locked ward. Visiting him there, I understood that there are individuals who must be locked up for their own safety and the safety of others.

I also understood that society must be vigilant about who we "lock up" and why. Legal rights must be steadfastly adhered to, conditions of confinement must be humane, and there must be accountability for the programs within the locked setting.

EXPLOSION
The United States' prison population has grown from 204,000 in 1973 to over 2.4 million in 2007.

Dostoyevsky wrote, "the standards of a nation's civilization can be judged by opening the doors of its prisons." An increase in the prison population of 1000% in 31 years is an issue which requires probing questions and thoughtful responses.

Ann Marie Kirk
Director of Art for Justice

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