Valentino Dixon: Drawing is my way to freedom

Valentino Dixon was 21 years old when he was arrested for shooting during riots near a bar in Buffalo on the night of August 10, 1991. Imprisoned for a murder he did not commit, Dixon found solace in art. Burchfield Penney Presents "Drawing is my way to freedom"an exhibition of paintings by Valentino Dixon, which led him to freedom.

Valentino struggled to adapt to life in prison until he reunited with his inner passion for art. He restored his motivation to draw, following his uncle’s advice: “if you regain your talent, you can regain your life.” Valentino painted up to 10 hours a day. His reputation as an artist led him to ask the attorney at the Attica penitentiary to draw the 12th hole of the legendary Augusta National Golf Club.

During and after the period of imprisonment, Valentino established himself as an informed and inspiring voice on criminal justice issues and opportunities for improvement. During the exhibition, he will present several speeches to share his story, the campaign for the much-needed reform of sentences and other changes in the criminal justice system.