In California’s prison system, aging and dying people are made to serve out their sentences — despite statistics showing they are extremely unlikely to re-offend.
An exhibition on view at the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art spotlights this issue through a collection of works by a graphic artist and a documentary by a Tenderloin filmmaker. The exhibition can be found on the museum’s second floor, and runs through June 2027.
Sign up for The Tenderloin Voice
Journalism for the Tenderloin, with the Tenderloin.
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Graphic artist Orlando Smith, who is incarcerated at San Quentin prison, explores the injustices of the prison system. The exhibition is titled “O. Smith: Artivist,” a term Smith uses because he considers himself both an artist and activist.
His illustrations resemble comics or graphic novels, of which he has published nearly 70. They depict civil rights and liberties abuses, and systemic oppression, that he has witnessed in prison and observed happening around the globe, alongside his own reflections. The exhibition includes dozens of his pieces.
Visitors to the installation can also view the short documentary, “Dying Alone,” by Tenderloin resident and filmmaker B. Raheem Ballard. The film follows three people diagnosed with terminal illnesses who are fighting to return to their families in their final days through the state’s “Compassionate Release” program. The program offers hope of reunion but its applicants are often denied, even if they are disabled or ill, or have little time left to live.
“Dying Alone” was recognized with two awards at the 2024 San Quentin Film Festival. Ballard, who made the film while incarcerated there, now lives in the Tenderloin.
Raheem Ballard in front of the installation of his film at the SFMOMA. Photo by Nadi K.B.
The Tenderloin Voice highlights artists whose works and lives are tied to this community. Join us in elevating them.
I'm a journalist who has covered San Francisco and the Bay Area in writing, audio and video for about a decade; started and hosted a few podcasts; and co-founded News Relay Network, publisher of the Tenderloin Voice. Reach me at laura@tlvoice.org.
