Golden Meadow by Chandler Clarke
Medium: Acrylics on primed leaf mounted on paper
Size: 7 x 5.5 inches
Artist statement: “My name is Chandler G Clarke a.k.a. Sid KL-1161 and I am currently serving life without parole +40 years for a crime my committed at the age of 20. My birthday is June 29, 1991 and I am 33 years old! In here, I am a paid mural artist here at SCI Greene and I paint murals all over the prison from small paintings to very large ones that range from 6′ x 6′ up to 30′ x 30′. I do personal work as well as to send home to generate funds to survive on. I am also a certified peer specialist and council other guys with mental health and men going through trouble times. I am also a decode, which is someone who is considered mentally ill because I have severe PTSD and depression. That enables me to be compassionate and come from a place of understanding when speaking to the guys. I am considered “one of the good ones”, a phrase typically heard from the CEOs in here. I don’t necessarily agree with that phrase because I believe we all can contribute, but it is said about me because I am honest, reliable trustworthy, and very respectful as well as stay out of trouble and try to help diffuse situations when they arise. I painted a self portrait, even though it is the first time painting something like this. I usually do nature and animals. That says this is me. I am human with qualities myself and many others inside here possess that free people don’t realize we are human and inherently good. My appearance, tattoo had to toe. Usually, I am judged instantly and looked at as a scary, criminal or violent, even though I am very smart, articulate and respectful to everyone. I felt this would show, despite our past mistakes, we are human and can be kind, loving, helpful, etc. I also sent a small scenery done on a Lief. Some thing I do a lot and sent home. I hope these are very well received and can contribute to your goals and Movement. Thank you for everything you do and for fighting for all of us behind these walls and fences. There’s anything I can do to help don’t hesitate to ask.”
Image description: A landscape painted on a leaf.