Podcast Summary: "Local Art Alert: Jesse Krimes"

Introduction

In the July 3, 2025 episode of ALL OF IT hosted by Alison Stewart on WNYC, the spotlight is on the transformative work of Jesse Krimes, a formerly incarcerated artist whose exhibition titled Corrections is currently on display at the Metropolitan Museum of Art (the Met) until July 13th. This episode delves deep into Krimes' journey, his establishment of the Center for Art and Advocacy, and the broader implications of his work within the cultural and carceral systems.

Establishing the Center for Art and Advocacy

At [01:30], Alison Stewart introduces Jesse Krimes as the founder of the Center for Art and Advocacy, recently opened in Bed-Stuy. Krimes shares his vision for the organization:

"I think that what we are trying to build at the Center for Art and Advocacy is something that is equal in scale, which is a very big dream, but it's also something that I believe is very necessary." ([01:46])

Krimes outlines the center's multifaceted approach:

• Funding Artists Nationwide: Providing fellowships and grants to six artists annually.
• Educational Partnerships: Developing an academy program in collaboration with institutions across the country.
• Residency Programs: Establishing a residency in rural Pennsylvania.
• New Physical Space: Recently inaugurated in Brooklyn, positioning the center at the heart of New York City's vibrant art scene.

Motivation Behind Supporting Incarcerated Artists

Alison probes why Krimes chose to focus on uplifting artists who have been incarcerated instead of solely pursuing his personal artistic career. At [02:53], Krimes responds:

"It was never really a question for me. It was just... having navigated that system and knowing not only my own personal experience... but coming across people who often, in many cases, had less charges than me and a lot more time." ([03:09])

He emphasizes the racial injustices inherent in the carceral system and the lack of representation for directly impacted artists in mainstream exhibitions. Krimes highlights the necessity of creating platforms where these artists can showcase their work and advocate for the end of mass incarceration.

The Importance of Creating Dedicated Spaces

When asked about the significance of having a dedicated space for incarcerated and formerly incarcerated artists, Krimes explains at [04:26]:

"Many of our artists have lost literal decades of their life behind bars... it just became very apparent and important that we needed a place... to really showcase the work that these artists are making from across the country." ([04:26])

He underscores the challenges these artists face in maintaining visibility and building their creative practices while dealing with the systemic erasure imposed by incarceration.

Jesse Krimes' Exhibit at the Met

Transitioning to his breakthrough moment, Krimes discusses his exhibition at the Met. Reflecting on the surreal experience of having his work displayed at such a prestigious institution, he states at [05:34]:

"I fully felt the weight of what it meant to be seen... to have that be valued at the most prestigious institution in the country... sends a very strong signal that... work of directly impacted artists... is something that is culturally important and significant for society." ([05:34])

This moment represents not only personal triumph but also a broader acknowledgment of the cultural contributions of artists affected by the carceral system.

Early Inspirations and Artistic Transformation

Krimes recounts his first visit to the Met during a high school class trip at [07:10]:

"I was shocked at the size of the museum itself... the individual works and the textures... it was actually radically transformative for me as an artist." ([07:10])

This experience profoundly influenced his artistic trajectory, inspiring him to pursue a path that intersects art with advocacy.

Navigating Incarceration and Advocacy Post-Release

Discussing his six-year incarceration, including solitary confinement, Krimes reflects on the challenges of addressing his experience publicly. Initially hesitant, he notes at [07:55]:

"There was a lot of stigma still associated around coming home from prison... but... we had Michelle Alexander's The New Jim Crow... Ava DuVernay's 13th... people started having these conversations in a much more public way." ([07:55])

These cultural touchpoints catalyzed a shift in public discourse, providing Krimes with the impetus to use his art as a medium for advocacy and to push for systemic change.

Overcoming Introversion to Advocate Publicly

Acknowledging his introverted nature, Krimes discusses what drives him to engage in public advocacy at [09:34]:

"I think, you know, we still have almost 2 million people who are incarcerated... there's an urgency and a necessity to support directly impacted artists... reclaim the narrative and control it in a way that highlights the dignity and humanity of the people." ([09:34])

His motivation is deeply personal, rooted in concern for friends still incarcerated and a commitment to leveraging every available platform to foster change.

Conclusion

The episode wraps up by highlighting Krimes' ongoing contributions through the Center for Art and Advocacy and teasing future discussions with other influential artists and exhibitions. Krimes' journey from incarceration to establishing a pivotal art center exemplifies the profound impact that art and advocacy can have in challenging and transforming societal structures.

Key Takeaways:

• Jesse Krimes' Advocacy: Transitioning from incarceration to founding the Center for Art and Advocacy, Krimes is dedicated to supporting artists affected by the carceral system.
• Cultural Significance: His exhibition at the Met serves as a powerful statement on the value and recognition of incarcerated artists within mainstream cultural institutions.
• Systemic Change Through Art: Krimes leverages his art to shed light on racial injustices and advocate for the dismantling of mass incarceration.
• Community and Representation: By providing platforms and resources, Krimes ensures that marginalized voices are heard and their stories are told authentically.

Notable Quotes:

• “What we are trying to build at the Center for Art and Advocacy is something that is equal in scale... something that I believe is very necessary.” ([01:46])
• “It just became very apparent and important that we needed a place... to really showcase the work that these artists are making from across the country.” ([04:26])
• “I fully felt the weight of what it meant to be seen... sends a very strong signal that... work of directly impacted artists... is something that is culturally important and significant for society.” ([05:34])
• “There was a lot of stigma still associated around coming home from prison... people started having these conversations in a much more public way.” ([07:55])
• “There's an urgency and a necessity to support directly impacted artists... reclaim the narrative and control it in a way that highlights the dignity and humanity of the people.” ([09:34])

This episode of ALL OF IT not only highlights Jesse Krimes' artistic achievements but also emphasizes the crucial role of art in social advocacy and systemic reform.