WE MAKE THE ROAD: a benefit show for Abolition School

Paul Lacombe and Kim Wilson

The primary function of prisons is to destroy human beings. Working against the

systematic death-making of these institutions is a Herculean task that requires

stick-to-it-ness, and a radical belief and commitment to destroy both the

conceptual and physical manifestations of oppressive structures. At the same

time, we need to tap into our imagination, joy, and cultivate practices that open

up new paths for collective Black liberation. 

“Fidel,” and “Antonio” are the product of such stick-to-it-ness. The photorealistic

portraits were drawn by Paul Lacombe, an activist, and son of Kim Wilson, co-

host and producer of the Beyond Prisons podcast. Paul’s portraits reveal

technical mastery, while also showing each subject’s vulnerability. Getting art

supplies in prison is not easy, and Paul has spent many years in and out of

solitary confinement where access to even paper and pencils is severely

restricted. Drawing portraits keeps Paul connected to the world, and over the

years many of his artworks have been destroyed or “lost” in transit to his mother.

Paul and Kim’s collaborations, including this set of portraits, are a testament to

remaining connected and imagining new worlds together. Kim contributed the

monotype printed backgrounds, the paper weaving elements, quote, and

stitching, which serve as a metaphor for how they (Kim and Paul) use their

combined artistic practices to create something new out of the ashes of a soul

crushing system.