oral history

Introduction

Background: Fernando spent 18 years in prison for a crime he did not commit, facing the harsh realities of wrongful convictions that alter lives irrevocably. This ordeal emphasizes not just the individual suffering but the broader implications of a flawed justice system, living entrenched in false narratives that affect family, community, and self-perception.

Injustice: This experience serves as a powerful testament to the egregious nature of wrongful convictions, highlighting systemic failures and the psychological toll of living with an imposed narrative of guilt. A critical moment in his wrongful conviction was the lineup procedure, where Fernando faced misidentification. Witness testimony, often unreliable, played a significant role in his case, illustrating the dangers and consequences of how lineups are conducted without careful oversight or multiple safeguards.

Fernando's Role: Beyond being a formerly incarcerated individual, he has emerged as an activist, scholar, and artist dedicated to raising awareness about social justice issues and supporting the wrongfully convicted. He uses his multifaceted background to educate others about the realities of mass incarceration and advocate for reform.

Presentation Overview

Art During COVID: In an effort to cope with stress and isolation during the pandemic, Fernando turned to art as a therapeutic outlet, exploring new forms of expression and creativity. His artistic journey during this period not only helped him process his own experiences but also reconnect with the community by promoting messages of resilience and hope.

Personal Milestone: He celebrated his children's academic achievements creatively, using art as a means of recognizing their hard work, culminating in a chalk art project that visually embraced and honored their milestones. This endeavor also fostered family bonding and provided a platform for expressing their collective narrative.

Key Artistic Projects

Art for Justice: Fernando received a grant to create art that promotes justice, working in collaboration with philanthropists to shed light on the critical issues surrounding mass incarceration. This initiative not only raises funds but also amplifies the voices of those impacted by the system, encouraging dialogue and awareness.

Braille Art: He crafted a personalized braille art piece for a visually impaired client, emphasizing the importance of accessibility in art. This project reflects his commitment to inclusivity and the belief that art should be a medium through which all individuals can experience beauty and meaning.

Sneaker Art: Fernando designed and sold sneakers with positive messages as both a creative outlet and a source of income. This project embodies his vision of merging art with commerce, allowing him to support himself while uplifting others with encouraging affirmations.

Christmas Postcards: He participated in a collaborative project sending holiday cards to incarcerated individuals, offering connection and support during a season that often highlights isolation for those in prison. This initiative emphasizes the importance of community and compassion.

Graffiti Beginnings

Cultural Exploration: Fernando’s artistic journey commenced with graffiti in New York City, where he perceived trains as a rolling gallery of expression—a way to convey powerful messages across urban landscapes.

Identity: He established his graffiti persona as "Most," which became crucial during his years in prison, serving as a reminder of his identity and the freedom of expression he still held within. It acted as a lifeline that reaffirmed his connection to creativity even in the face of adversity, ultimately influencing his later artworks and activism.