Ann Marie Kirk

Ann Marie began her artistic journey after a traumatic childhood incident, teaching herself to use poetry and dance as a vehicle for self-expression, healing, and empowerment. Since then, she has used these practices to help others and to break down cultural barriers. Throughout the years Ann Marie has been dedicated to working with mentally ill individuals, victims of domestic violence, and incarcerated youth. Her poetry and photography has served to inspire change in those she works with and their families, and has supported them in finding constructive ways to give back to their communities. Ann Marie's art also speaks out against the present system of incarceration and exposes the harsh realities of prison life. She currently works with Art for Justice, creating photographs, writing, and functioning as a curator for the exhibits. Her work there challenges others to reexamine their attitudes and beliefs towards incarceration. She has worked with artists from several prisons and together they have displayed over 37 exhibits in the Philadelphia region. Ann Marie has been involved in many workshops and conferences, which serve the social justice community and plans to continue pursuing projects, which will expand and enhance her writing and photography, while serving the greater cause.