Prison Arts Collective expands access to the transformative power of the arts by providing programming in prisons and for communities impacted by incarceration.

We envision a collaborative and inclusive society where everyone has access to the arts to promote wellbeing and empowerment.

Prison Arts Collective (PAC) believes in art as a human right and the capacity of art to cultivate community and positive change. PAC is dedicated to expanding access to the transformative power of art to people experiencing incarceration through partnerships with California state universities. PAC is headquartered at San Diego State University with partnerships at CSU San Bernardino, CSU Fullerton, and Humboldt State University. PAC evolved out of socially engaged art and community advocacy. Through University-Prison partnerships, PAC draws on the expertise and research of faculty, the energy and enthusiasm of students, and dedicated staff to provide visual and interdisciplinary arts programming in California prisons. PAC is influenced by liberatory pedagogy and principles of restorative justice. 

PAC’s programs include:

• Arts Facilitator Training for incarcerated peer-leaders

• Guest artist workshops

• Multidisciplinary arts classes

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