Radial Reform: Artistic Impressions of Eastern State Penitentiary: A Collection of Images, Poetry, and Prose

Radial Reform: Artistic Impressions of Eastern State Penitentiary is a feast for the eyes and soul. What began as one photographer's journey to capture the unexpected beauty contained within the crumbling walls of Philadelphia's historic Eastern State Penitentiary, has become the inspiration for the included works of many writers and poets.

This book is an exercise in compassion; both for ourselves as well as others. The hope is that it will continue to inspire heartfelt thought and reflection. It can be so difficult to imagine what life is like for another person living in circumstances so different from our own or even to imagine ourselves living in a way that is different. To do so requires intent and practice and the author's hope is that this provides a platform for the creative exercise of compassion and insight.

How to be included in the book!

Every reader has the opportunity to view the photos and writings and then contribute their own thoughts for inclusion in future printings! This is intended to be a "living work" so if you feel moved to do so, please see the submission information inside. The author is delighted to include contributors from a variety of skill levels, ages, ethnicities, backgrounds, and perspectives. The aim is diversity of thought. The author thrives on the idea of people letting themselves out of their own self-limiting prisons. Every person has valuable feelings and thoughts worthy of sharing. Please accept this invitation to set your mind free!

How did this book come about?

In the fall of 2020, Mandy Sirofchuk, owner of Main Exhibit Gallery in Ligonier, Pennsylvania approached the author about doing a show based on the photos taken at Eastern State Penitentiary in 2016. In addition to exhibiting the photographs, there would be a call for writers to submit thoughts inspired by viewing the images. The idea of commemorating the collaboration in a book seemed like a natural fit and a fantastic way to provide an opportunity for writers of all backgrounds, ages, and abilities to be seen and appreciated. In order to maintain uninfluenced experiencing of the images, captions and facts about the photos and Eastern State Penitentiary itself are not included in the book.