Artist Statement

“Can’t Pay the Price” is a reflection on the cost of freedom in the U.S. criminal legal system.

We hear all too often how affluent (mostly white) suspects walk free because they can pay for the price of freedom. They can afford better representation, court costs, and large bail price tags — and are generally treated better and more humanely throughout the legal process, starting with the arrest. On the opposite side of the coin, someone who comes from poverty or lesser economic mobility may find themselves quite literally paying in flesh (AKA jail time), because they can't raise the funds to bond out or plead their case effectively. This has a lasting impact and contributes to the cycle of oppression in many ways. When a poor person can't make bail, they can't get to work and often lose their jobs. Many poor suspects are also not aware of their rights. This is not equal justice. The justice system contributes to this cycle instead of remedying the real issue: poverty. We all have the responsibility to seek truth beyond cost.

Biography

Hannah “Jonesy” Jones (she/they) is a 28-year-old, mixed race, queer artist currently based in Cincinnati, Ohio. Her work focuses on human intersectionality and fantasizes a world that thrives outside basic heteronormative thinking. She uses loud, vivid, saturated pop imagery to illuminate and dignify ALL KINDS OF HUMANS on every level of the spectrum, visualized as happily thriving in full flying, glorious colors outside the rigid black and white boxes society places on them and their identities.

Jonesy wants her audience to experience something positive and exciting in her work — and feel SEEN, embraced and celebrated. She encourages you to see yourself in living color. Visit her website at jonesyoriginals.com and follow her on Instagram @hannahljonesy.