William James Association

William James Association
Through the healing and transformative nature of art, we offer paths of discovery through creative engagement.​
Learn More
Prison Arts Project
The Prison Arts Project provides meaningful arts experiences for thousands of men, women, and youth in the criminal justice system. We know that the practice of making art cultivates transformation and improves lives.
Learn More
WJA 50th Anniversary Recap
The William James Association’s 50th Anniversary event was a powerful celebration of our legacy in arts and community service, underscoring the lasting impact of our programs. Read more about the two-day event on our blog.
Read More

Our Mission

The William James Association (WJA) promotes work service in the arts, environment, education, and community development. Our work has been primarily centered around transformative arts experiences in nontraditional settings, serving men and women in and after prison and high-risk youth. Acting on the conviction that the fine arts enrich, heal, and unite communities, the William James Association has brought exceptional artists into prisons throughout California and other states since 1977.

Programs

Prison Arts Project

The Prison Arts Project program provides meaningful art experiences for thousands of men, women, and youth in the criminal justice system. We know that making art cultivates transformation and improves creativity and lives.

Community Youth Arts

The Community Youth Arts Project (CYAP) was created to provide quality, in-depth arts experiences for at-risk youth, in the belief that participation in the artistic process positively affects their view of themselves and the world around them.

Alumni Program

The WJA Prison Arts Project Alumni program offers continued support and opportunities for artists currently and previously participating in the Prison Arts Project by providing resources, networking opportunities, and platforms to showcase their work.

Featured Events

Taking Liberties
JUST ARTISTS Group

In 2023, artist Henry Frank formed the JUST ARTISTS group with the support of the William James Association and the Art for Justice Fund. This group brought together  San Quentin Prison Arts Project alums and teaching artists to revive a steamroller printmaking project from 2008, resulting in the “Taking Liberties” series. To learn more about “Taking Liberties,” visit our blog.

Skateboard Project, Humboldt SkateLab and WJA

The Skateboard Project was a collaboration between Humboldt SkateLab and the William James Association. Artists created unique hand-painted skateboards, which were auctioned to raise funds for providing skateboards and helmets to disadvantaged youth. For more information, visit our blog.

SAVE THE DATE: Potluck Picnic at Miwok Park

Save the Date: September 22, 2024, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Miwok Park, Novato. Join us to celebrate 50 years of arts and social justice work. Enjoy food, games, and an open mic. Bring your family for a day of fun and connection in the park.

Our Impact

Participation

2500

Participants who’ve benefited from WJA supported programming

Employment

53

WJA Staff and Teaching Artists

Allocated

75%

of funds to support
art workshops

"The Prison Arts Project helped me discover my creative spirit and, in the process, sent me down the path of discovery. The program filled the void in my soul like cool water on the hot and barren landscape that is prison."
Spoon JacksonPoet and AIC program alum
“Incarceration, seemingly a million miles from humanity. Yet, here... You have moments… and in these moments of clarity, the light. That is, humanity touches you, and of that moment. That light, that simple kindness becomes a beacon! And the warmth, the feeling of gratitude. Vastness. Renewal…memories…hopes. Dreams. Uninhibited. Thank you AIC Program!”
Mr. LAIC program participant
“In my circle, I discover my words have power—the power to heal, to brainstorm, to bring laughter. My writing can inspire thoughts and move hearts to change what’s wrong in the world and encourage someone else to write. With words, I stare the truth in the face, and I am not afraid to acknowledge or share it, for I am humanized by it.”
AIC program participant from Laura Gularte’s Literary workshop at Mule Creek State Prison.
"Art is medicine for the mind and religion for the soul for those in dark places. Art brings light."
Orlando SmithVisual Artist and AIC program participant
"The time that I'm in class it's a safe environment that allows me to find peace, hope, and life. It's hard to explain the joy I have drawing and painting. As funny as it sounds the stress seems to just melt away."
AIC program participant
"For me it's a spiritual expression which helps me focus on my spiritual road. It motivates me to look deeper inside myself so as to live by the values I believe in. In other words, I find my balance. A'ho."
AIC program participant

Transform Lives through Creativity

At WJA, we believe in the transformative power of art. Through creativity, incarcerated individuals can express themselves, heal, and grow. Your support makes this possible. Join Us in Making a Difference Every donation transforms lives. Support the Prison Art Project to turn confinement into creativity and isolation into inspiration.

Donate Now

Our Partners

Scroll to Top

Walls turned sideways are bridges

Angela Davis

Your Generous Support Directly Reduces Recidivism Rates

Nationally, 65% of previously incarcerated people will return to prison within 3 years of being released.

For previously incarcerated people engaged in arts programming the recidivism rate drops to 14%.

Recidivism decreased by 51% for formerly incarcerated individuals who participated in Arts-In-Corrections programs.

Prison Arts Project mural
Support WJA Today