MORGAN HORNSBY

Description: This collection of images, collages, and poems are from individuals incarcerated in the Grundy County Jail during classes and workshops I facilitated in the facility.

Location: Altamont, TN.

Year: 2022-present

I used to love roller skating and playing soccer but now I only feel pain with my older age. I love being around my grandchildren, they fill me with love and happiness. So does cooking for my family. I used to fear my uncle’s pony because he would chase me in the pasture trying to eat my hair. I used to fear my brother when I was little, he was always putting on the electric fence. Now I fear going to jail, loud noises, and very very mean people.

Kim Smith 

I started smoking when I was 13 years old. My aunt Edith had me to inhale the smoke that’s how I started smoking.

We used to drink alcohol when we would stay all night with Aunt Doris. We would sing along to the radio.

I never did like being lied to, it hurts my feelings.

I love to go walking through the woods. Spending time with family and friends, living and laughing and having a good time with everyone.

We were happy in those days. We all enjoyed each other’s company.

In my younger days my grandpa would tell me ghost stories of his past. My uncles would kill snakes and chase me with them on a pitch fork.

I remember whippings from mama that stuck with you all through a lifetime.

I never did much like jail because it takes away your freedom and your life. The sirens used to worry us because we were afraid that we would hear bad news. People don’t like to hear any kind of bad news.  

Sherry Bray

EXHIBITIONS