Prisoners' art gains community recognition

Inmates at the Hutchinson (Kan.) Correctional Facility who participate in Freedom Challenge, a ministry extension of Teen Challenge, opened their first art exhibit in October at the Exploration Place in Wichita.

Don Starnes, Freedom Challenge director, says the experience has helped change community perceptions about prisoners.

“We want people to know these guys aren't the refuse of society,” Starnes says. “These men, locked away for their sins, have found freedom to dream beyond their cells. There are guys in there with real talent.”

The Kansas District Council of the Assemblies of God also took notice of the art exhibit.

“We're really excited about FC taking this kind of initiative,” says Aaron Rust, District office manager. “This ministry is leading inmates to a relationship with Christ, freeing them from their life controlling issues that contributed to their incarceration.”

All proceeds from the sale of the inmates' works benefit Freedom Challenge, which is helping the incarcerated overcome life-controlling issues such as illegal drugs, alcohol and anger.

Since its inception in 2005, more than 80 prisoners have gone through the eight-month program.

— Matthew T. Polites, AG News