Inmates, former inmates create art through program started after officer Joseph Gomm’s death

Inmates at the Stillwater Correctional Facility are creating art and discovering their gifts.

It’s a project called Art from the Inside.

It was created by correctional officer Antonio Espinosa after his friend, correctional officer Joseph Gomm, was killed by an inmate. Espinoza was looking for a way to foster transformation, healing and forgiveness.

Art from the Inside was born, and the result is nothing short of beautiful.

"I really don’t want to see another murder ever in the prison system in Minnesota," Espinosa said. "I’m doing whatever I could do to try to bring positive reinforcement into the system. Trying to create a new culture. Trying to restore some sort of humanity in people. Wanting to see the transformation in people … that’s so important to me."

He adds that people have worth. And he’s trying to find a way for them to find it.

Inmates and former inmates have created beautiful works of art for sale. Artists determine the prices and sales go directly to them.

The online store is set to open at 5:30 p.m. Friday.