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June 24, 2021

Artist unveils critical race studies project in Beal Botanical Garden

The same size and blueprint as an ADX (administrative maximum) isolation cell, "A Solitary Greenhouse," now on display in Michigan State University’s Beal Botanical Garden, is a fully functioning greenhouse designed to grow seedlings for future abolitionist gardens. It is the work of artist jackie sumell as part of her 2019-2020 artist residency in Critical Race Studies in MSU’s Department of Art, Art History, and Design and will be on display through the end of the fall 2021 semester.

“I hope people engage with the work and continue to build their compassion,” said sumell. “If they believe some folks deserve long-term solitary confinement, I hope they change their mind. If they believe solitary confinement is cruel and unusual, I hope they work harder to end it.” 

Read the full story on the College of Arts and Letters website.

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