Workhouse Arts Center Showcases Prison Reimagined – Presidential Portrait Project, Featuring Art by Currently Incarcerated Artists
Lorton, VA – From January 18 through March 12, 2025, the Workhouse Arts Center partners with Justice Arts Coalition (JAC) to present Prison Reimagined: Presidential Portrait Project. This powerful exhibit showcases artwork created entirely by currently incarcerated artists in the United States and is the brainchild of journalist Caddell Kivett, one of the editors of Nash News and currently incarcerated at Nash Correctional Institution in North Carolina.
The collection of visual and written art will be on display in the Vulcan Gallery (Building 16) until March 12, 2025, with a reception on February 8 from 6–8 p.m.
About the Exhibition
Prison Reimagined offers a unique opportunity for audiences to examine and challenge ideas of justice and freedom—particularly at a site originally designed as a reimagining of the carceral system. The Workhouse, a former prison transformed into an arts center, stands as a testament to new possibilities and the power of creativity. This exhibition invites visitors to reconsider traditional narratives of justice and freedom in America and to question whether our systems truly function as intended—to create a safer, stronger society.
About the Curator & Creator
Caddell “Monty” Kivett is a journalist and freelance writer who studied Media and Journalism at the University of North Carolina at Greensboro. Incarcerated in North Carolina since 2010, Kivett is dedicated to fostering dialogue around justice reform.
“This project connects the public with people behind bars and challenges the actions of leaders to ignite change. It was necessary to include the incarcerated—those at the heart of the issue—in the discussion about punishment and system reform.”
The Workhouse Arts Center’s Unique History
The Workhouse Arts Center has played a vital role in the revitalization of the surrounding region since its transformation into an arts center over 15 years ago. As a former prison, the Workhouse acknowledges its history while continuing to shape its impact on the future.
Visitors can explore the site’s rich history at the Lorton Prison Museum featuring the Lucy Burns Gallery, which chronicles the 91-year history (1910–2001) of the Lorton Correctional Complex. Originally envisioned as a progressive alternative to traditional incarceration, the prison later became an overcrowded facility facing many of the same challenges seen in today’s justice system. The complex ceased admitting new inmates in 1998, and the last prisoners were transferred out in 2001. The federal government later sold much of the property to Fairfax County, with 55 acres becoming the Workhouse Arts Center in 2008.
Exhibition & Museum Hours
Prison Reimagined is open to the public during Workhouse Arts Center hours:
Wednesday–Saturday, 11 a.m.–6 p.m. | Sunday, Noon–5 p.m.
The Lorton Prison Museum featuring the Lucy Burns Gallery is open:
Friday & Saturday, 11 a.m.–6 p.m. | Sunday, Noon–5 p.m.
Special Programs
The Workhouse Arts Center will host several programs in conjunction with Prison Reimagined:
Reception & Call-In Discussion – Saturday, February 8, 6–8 p.m.
Featuring a live call-in from Caddell Kivett and representatives from the Justice Arts Coalition
Interactive Art-Translation Workshop – Sunday, February 9, 11 a.m.–1 p.m.
Led by Isaac Scott of the Justice Arts Coalition
Learning at Lunch: Prison Reimagined – Friday, February 21, Noon – 1 p.m.
Featuring a live call-in from Caddell Kivett and Janie Ritter of the Justice Arts Coalition
Curated Exhibition Tour – Sunday, March 9, 1 p.m.
Led by Janie Ritter of the Justice Arts Coalition
Parking:
Free parking is available in the surrounding areas at Workhouse Arts Center.
For more details, visit: https://www.workhousearts.org/calendar/prison-reimagined-exhibition
Exhibition Inquiries
Please direct exhibition inquiries to Sarah Berry at sarahberry@workhousearts.org
About Workhouse Arts Center
The Workhouse Arts Center in Lorton, Virginia, is a nonprofit organization dedicated to transforming lives through the power of the arts. Once a historic prison, the Workhouse is now a vibrant cultural hub offering gallery exhibitions, live performances, educational programs, and special events that inspire creativity and foster community engagement. Committed to excellence, inclusivity, and sustainability, the Workhouse empowers artists, enriches lives, and drives positive social change while serving as a dynamic platform for artistic expression and cultural dialogue.
Media Contact:
Nancy Hessler-Spruill
Head of Marketing
Workhouse Arts Center
Phone: (703) 785-0804
Email: nancyh@workhousearts.org