Artist Profile: DarRen Morris
Since 2012, DarRen Morris’s art has appeared in nearly 50 art shows. He also co-wrote “Warm Blood: Prison & Privilege, Hurt & Heart” with author Judith Adrian, an autobiography about his life before being sentenced to life in prison at age 17. DarRen is currently still incarcerated in a Green Bay correctional facility.
1) What informs your creative process?
My creative process for the most part comes from my emotions: how I feel about something I am or have experienced. I am also moved by things external, and even then, it usually comes back to how I feel about whatever it is that has my attention.
But not every painting starts the same way. Most start with that feeling. Then I will usually do a sketch. My creative phase is not the same as my painting phase per se. So in the creative phase it is not uncommon for me to block in the main theme of several paintings. I will work on that batch usually all at once so three (or more) paintings are done at once.
2) What is your favorite medium(s) to work in?
The medium that I prefer would be acrylics because having been trained in those, plus I am able to finish a painting quickly. Recently I have begun working with water mixable oils. I like the way the colors don't shift as much once they dry (as the result of the extended blending time). But the extended blending time and how this paint is when wet does slow my process down; I am not sure I like that. But I cannot argue with the finished work.
3) Is there new artwork you are planning to finish this year?
There will be a lot of things being made available this year and early next year. I am writing a play, plus a follow-up book to In Warm Blood: Prison & Privilege, Hurt & Heart (IWB). It is a book that seems even more relevant with all that is taking place now in the world. The new book will answer questions from IWB and take on some really big social issues, in addition to what I believe is needed for healing and growth for everyone. I also have tons of art yet to come. I am doing an art book that will have paintings never seen publicly; drawings; and personal photos of friends and family—some from before prison and others showing my years in prison and growing up in a prison visiting room. Some of these will relate directly to the other books by being able to see some of these places and people. Some poetry may be included. Judy and I look forward to putting together a show to bring these things to the public.
4) Do you think it's possible for more incarcerated artists' work to reach a broader audience outside the prison system? And if so, what are potential benefits?
There are some really talented guys and transgenders in here [prison] whose art is awesome. One transgender person I knew would like the distinction because her art is related to her struggles and her belief that the stories are not known. I was uncomfortable at first; I did not know a lot about trans people or anything to do with LBGTQ+ community. And this is prison, like high school, in the worst way. But a valued friend from the outside knew her and knew that, at the time, she needed someone. Trans and gay people are usually socially isolated publicly. I was sure I did not want to have a private meeting. I really respect my friend. So in any case I took the step and we would sit and share art in the library under the inquisitive, ever-watching eyes.
I looked at her art at first. I was like, this is childish. Then I seen it. It was her story. She showed me the main story of her evolution; things I can't really speak to. Only she and the other individuals understand. My path, my paintings…are not the best of this place. In here, are guys I have seen who make me look like a kid artist. There are others who don't have artistic talents per se, but want to express this way—and are the most amazing artists because it is a pure expression. So at times I am like “wow,” and most of the time, no one sees them. I mean this could be a huge visual journal from prisoners.
If the Diary of Anne Frank has a place, this too should have it's place. History is being deprived of our Greek tragedy...This clearly would offer something to the community. I think an exhibit like that would inspire other incarcerated artists to want to get their name and art out.
(*DarRen was kind enough to end his email interview by stating “Whoa. I think it is awesome that you have been open to allow this to exist in your space.” Which was humbling…and a powerful reminder as to why The Little Book Project WI now exists. His story and artwork has meaning we all can learn from on a holistic level.)