dbachman@observer-reporter.com
Jim Winegar has worked with many accomplished artists throughout his 30-plus-year career, but he recently discovered some talent in the unlikeliest of places: SCI-Fayette.
Winegar began teaching drawing and painting at the maximum-security facility about a year ago, at the suggestion of a friend.
And even though the state Department of Corrections has placed restrictions on the artistic materials that can be used, inmates have improvised quite nicely to produce some top-notch work.
Through May 5, more than 150 of their pieces are being exhibited in what Winegar calls "probably one of the largest opportunities they've had to show some of their work" at the Artists' Co-op in the Washington Trust Building.
"I'm surprised at the level of quality and knowledge," Winegar said. "It's been a very affirming situation."
Winegar previously taught classes at Rightway Academy near Waynesburg, a private boarding school for young people addicted to alcohol, drugs or with behavioral problems. The inmate population at SCI-Fayette is quite different from that at Rightway, but those with whom Winegar works have a history of being compliant.
"I'm working with a segment that's very interested in learning, number one. They're really interested in the class," Winegar said. "They're doing art, they're learning about it, they're able to express themselves.
"They come from different blocks. When they come to the classroom and see each other, they're talking about techniques. The enthusiasm is there."
Winegar has about 120 students, and spends a few hours three days a week at the prison.
"I don't get to know a lot about them," said Winegar, although he is familiar with some of the stories behind their incarceration.
However, their artwork speaks volumes.
One inmate has a Native American background, which is reflected in two pieces, "Wind Dancer" and "Many Coups," which Winegar had on hand during a recent interview at the co-op. Both pieces focus on the proud facial features of a warrior.
Three other pieces that Winegar showed - "The Cheat," "Boy in Snow" and "Evening Waterfall" - aren't as precise in their execution, but they are captivating nonetheless and offer a glimpse of the inmates' talent.
"They're working very hard to develop their ability," Winegar said.
Many inmates will spend time in their cells painting or drawing, and some of their work is done using whatever materials they are able to purchase from the small stipend they receive from jobs they perform at the prison. However, they are not permitted to work with oil or solvents, and there are restrictions on the paint brushes that can be used as well.
"Some are very resourceful. They do what they can to do their work," said Winegar, who, when he's not teaching at the prison, operates a pottery studio, along with his wife, Linda, in a 100-year-old barn on his Graysville farm in Greene County.
The art program is not intended as art therapy. However, the class has enabled many of the men to recognize their ability for positive self-expression and enhance their problem-solving skills.
A broad variety of work will be available for purchase and will feature drawings in pencil, colored pencil, pastels, ink and charcoal, plus paintings in acrylic, watercolor and mixed media.
The pieces depict a variety of influences in subject matter, with a strong interest in nature, animals and landscapes. The urban environment also is a part of the imagery, with graffiti design and tattoo art playing a role.
Although Winegar is not aware of any of inmates who've had extensive artistic training, he does believe a few might be able to pursue a career in the arts.
"I really do," he said. "The talent is certainly there in terms of pursuit. The potential for a career can be arranged for them."