UnFramed, an art showcase held on Marian University’s campus, highlighted creative work connected to the Indiana Women’s Prison Program and emphasized the power of artistic expression.
The event was hosted by Crystal Vicars, chair of Marian University’s Department of Art and Design, a professor and gallery director at the university. Vicars also works with the Indiana Women’s Prison Program, which teaches participants to express themselves through various forms of art.
The program focuses on more than visual artwork. Participants explore poetry, painting, drawing and other creative mediums as ways to communicate their experiences and emotions beyond words.
The event faced logistical challenges after the university lost its previous gallery director midway through the previous semester, delaying the exhibition. Additionally, some artwork created by women in the program was not able to remain in their possession, making coordination more difficult.
Despite these obstacles, UnFramed served as an opportunity to display the creativity of program participants and to ensure their work was visible on campus. Organizers emphasized the importance of allowing the artists to feel connected to the broader Marian community through the exhibition of their work.
One piece that resonated with students and staff was the Dorothy Day quilt, which depicted Franciscan values such as peace, justice and human dignity through symbolic imagery. The quilt also reflected academic milestones, honoring participants who earned associate or bachelor’s degrees in liberal arts through the program.
Although Vicars was unavailable for a formal interview, she shared a quote that reflected the spirit of the event and its mission.
“Art washes away from the soul the dust of everyday life,” Picasso said.
The UnFramed exhibition emphasized art as a tool for healing, connection and transformation, reinforcing Marian University’s commitment to creativity, dignity and community engagement.
