Residents showcased their creativity in the prison’s chapel during Expressive Arts Night at San Quentin Rehabilitation Center. The performances ranged from a diverse range of live music and poetry.

Expressive Arts Night is one of several events held at SQ in conjunction with Mental Wellness Week. The event featured workshops, creativity, and wellness activities in recognition of National Suicide Prevention Month. It provided residents the chance to showcase their creativity, while following their hearts and expressing themselves in the style they desire without fear of being judged.

Hopeful performers participated in tryouts, in a nod to Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory book and movies, 20 golden tickets were awarded to those who made the cut, which in part read, “Your audition was impressive and it’s believed you will be an excellent fit for this production.”

Mental Health Department staff greeted attendees at the door with smiles, distributing bags of chips and granola bars.

Residents and staff gathered in the prison chapel eager to watch and listen to the talent that took the stage to perform.

Resident Situation Toluao started the evening with a remembrance song that honored the passing of his former boss, staff member Roshawn Wynn. “Mr. Wynn was one of the nicest kindest souls I’ve ever met. He was a man of God and faith. He reminded me there is good on Earth. The best is yet to come.” Rest in peace, Mr. Wynn.

Recreation officer K. Bhatt, a member of the mental health suicide prevention committee said the event helps bring the community together.

“I think mental health is the key to success for the incarcerated and staff, not only keeping a healthy mind, but body also,” Bhatt said. “As we’ve done this [Expressive Arts Night] for multiple years, it encourages staff to come out and support this.”

Resident Andrew Weatherspoon recently arrived at SQ after serving time at two prisons. He said he had never seen anything like this event while incarcerated. He performed an original song titled “Solitude” on his guitar.

“I’m excited for other people for the simple fact that I’m expressing an internal reflection that we all possess for others’ enjoyment, for and through God,” Weatherspoon said. “It was a little nerve-wracking; the energy in the room was crazy.”

For over two hours, the chapel transformed into a music venue, emphasizing the purpose of having events that help those struggling with mental health: to alleviate pain and bringing joy to both individuals and others.