Recently, I traveled to Lansing to install my artwork for the Linkage Community’s This Is Us exhibit. The Linkage Community is a program affiliated with the University of Michigan that showcases art from formerly incarcerated artists. The installation is now displayed in a high-traffic area among Spartans (200 Albert St, East Lansing, MI 48823), a place where thousands will pass by and, hopefully, stop to engage with the work. Will it be popular? That remains to be seen. But what matters most is that it's there; visible, undeniable, and part of a larger conversation.
The installation process went smoothly, with great energy from everyone involved. There's something powerful about working alongside people who understand what it means to rebuild, to reclaim a narrative, and to create something meaningful out of experiences that could have easily crushed us. Everyone showed up with a shared purpose, and that created an atmosphere that was both productive and inspiring.
Beyond the art itself, what stood out to me most was the feeling of belonging. Being welcomed into the Linkage Community has been an incredible experience. This isn't just an exhibition; it's a movement, a bridge between past and present, between artists and the communities they're re-entering. For me, this trip wasn't just about putting up paintings. It was about stepping further into a world where I am free, where I can contribute, and where I am recognized not for my past mistakes, but for my talent and my dedication.
Living in a new place and being surrounded by supportive, like-minded people felt refreshing. I wasn't just an outsider passing through; I was part of something bigger, something that has the potential to change lives, both for the artists involved and for those who view our work.
As I left Lansing, I carried more than just the satisfaction of a successful installation. I carried a renewed sense of purpose, a deeper appreciation for the opportunities ahead, and the excitement of knowing that my art, and my story, are now out there, sparking conversations and, hopefully, inspiring change.
About the Author: Rod Burg
A beatnik at heart, I’ve spent my life exploring ideas, questioning everything, and seeking meaning through creativity. Art and writing have been my guiding lights, offering me a sense of purpose and accomplishment even during my darkest times. My journey has taken me down long roads of vice and through the harsh realities of prison, but those experiences shaped me, ultimately leading me to a place of clarity and wellness.
Each drawing I create tells a story, and every piece I write presents a challenge that fuels my passion for growth and self-expression. Today, I use my art and words not only to reflect on my journey but also to inspire others and contribute to building a better world.
Article made possible by the Linkage Community Journalism Initiative. Photography by Linkage Community members.
