About Us
Designed Conviction is a social enterprise committed to empowering incarcerated artists by providing platforms for creative expression, personal growth, and societal reintegration. Founded by Taylor Conley, who experienced incarceration firsthand, our organization seeks to challenge the stigmas associated with the justice system and highlight the transformative power of art.
We believe that every individual possesses inherent creativity and the capacity for change. Through initiatives like art exhibitions, publications, and multimedia projects, we showcase the talents of incarcerated individuals, fostering a sense of purpose and connection both within and beyond prison walls.
Our mission extends beyond artistic expression; we aim to reduce recidivism by promoting rehabilitation through the arts. By collaborating with artists, advocates, and communities, Designed Conviction strives to create a more inclusive society that recognizes the value and potential of every person, regardless of their past.
Designed Conviction offers a suite of transformative programs through our Foundation, aimed at empowering incarcerated artists through creative expression. Here’s an overview of three key initiatives:.
🎨 Designed Conviction: The Magazine
This publication serves as a platform for incarcerated individuals to share their stories, artwork, and creative expressions. By providing a voice to those behind bars, the magazine fosters a sense of community, hope, and empowerment, highlighting the positive transformations that can occur through art and storytelling.
🖌️ Art for Impact
The Art for Impact program harnesses the transformative power of art to support and uplift communities affected by incarceration. By spotlighting the creative talents of incarcerated artists, this initiative not only provides a platform for artistic expression but also generates meaningful support for vital causes, fostering connections between artists and the broader community.
🎶 Empowering Self-Discovery Through Music and Writing
This initiative leverages music’s profound ability to touch every facet of the human experience. Through a series of innovative workshops bundled into a comprehensive workbook, participants engage in self-exploration and emotional expression via music and songwriting, facilitating personal growth and rehabilitation.Â
Our Story
Out of Washington State, a talented incarcerated artist named Taylor Tom began a journey that would transform lives behind prison walls. While confined within a correctional facility, Taylor channeled his pain, hope, and imagination into powerful works of art—each piece a testament to the resilience of the human spirit.
In his solitude, Taylor reflected on the many hidden talents surrounding him—incarcerated artists whose voices were unheard and whose creativity remained unseen. Determined to change that, he envisioned a platform that could unite and uplift these artists, providing them an opportunity to express themselves, be recognized, and be part of something bigger.
That vision became Designed Conviction—a magazine and movement dedicated to showcasing the creative potential of people currently incarcerated and doing positive things with their time. More than just a publication, Designed Conviction became a mission: to amplify voices, challenge stereotypes, and inspire through authentic stories and original art created behind bars.
Taylor shared his idea with family and friends, whose immediate support helped bring the vision to life. What began as a dream in a prison cell has grown into a respected platform that connects incarcerated artists with the outside world, highlighting the role of art in rehabilitation and reform.
Each issue of Designed Conviction draws more artists into its fold—men and women who contribute original artwork and stories that reflect their journeys, struggles, and hopes. The project has sparked collaborations with advocates, reform organizations, and communities passionate about the power of art to drive social change.
Today, Designed Conviction stands as a beacon of hope and transformation. Through Taylor’s leadership and the contributions of countless incarcerated artists, the platform continues to redefine what’s possible—proving that art knows no bars, and every voice matters.