Support for Political Prisoners with Rigo 23, Painter and Activist

Art Heals All Wounds

Today, I’m joined by Rigo 23, a painter, muralist, and activist who has undertaken collaborative art projects with some of America's political prisoners. In our conversation, Rigo expands on the inspiration and process behind two of his works: His recent February 31st Exhibit that includes work with, and inspired by, the Angola 3 and a large-scale statue of Leonard Peltier based on one of Peltier’s self-portraits.

Herman Wallace, Albert Woodfox, and Robert King, also known as the Angola 3, were subjected to a combined 114 years in closed cell restriction, which is the longest known solitary confinement incarceration in world history. February 31st is an exhibit that invites viewers to explore the work of Rigo 23 that was a collaboration with Wallace, Woodfox, and King, and inspired by the unique worldview that Herman, Albert, and Robert developed during their years of deprivation and inhumane conditions.

Rigo also shares the story behind his statue of Leonard Peltier, an Indigenous rights activist who is still serving a prison sentence from when he was wrongfully convicted of murdering two FBI agents in 1975. The statue Rigo created, based on Leonard Peltier’s self-portrait, has traveled around the country, and exemplifies how art can harness support for those unjustly imprisoned.

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Topics Covered:

● The personal experience that sparked Rigo’s interest in learning about the lived experiences of political prisoners

● The lasting impact on Rigo from his relationship with the Angola 3 and Leonard Peltier

● How Leonard Peltier’s self-portrait in prison inspired Rigo to create a solidarity statue How the sculpture of Leonard was stolen, then found with community help

● Art as a way to go beyond structural division by race, gender, and beliefs

Resources Mentioned:

● February 31st show at the Anglim/Trimble Gallery

● The Leonard Peltier Statue

Guest Info:

● Rigo's Instagram

● [e-mail]
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