Pre-orders are now available for ARTISTS IN SPACE, a book presented by Compton-based, Jeffrey Deitch affiliated artist and criminal justice reform advocate, Mr. Wash. The 200-page book presents a visual archive of studio environments from 20 of Los Angeles’ most dynamic working artists today. All proceeds of the project will go towards building the Art By Wash Studio & Community Center, a space in Compton dedicated to growth and restoration via arts programming, creative residencies, and housing for formerly incarcerated individuals.
Artists in Space follows a series of 20 studio visits, where Mr. Wash sits down with friends and peers to explore how artists cultivate environments, both physical and emotional, to nurture creative expression. The project offers a rare and intimate look into the sacred spaces of Angeleno artists who embody the multigenerational and multidisciplinary voices of the city itself, reflecting its many lineages, languages, and communities.
Spotlighted artists include Mario Ayala, Charles Bibbs, Patrisse Cullors, Mel Depaz, Delfin Finley, Kohshin Finley, Erin D. Garcia, Kenneth Gatewood, Alfonso Gonzalez Jr., Lanise Howard, Ozzie Juarez, Tidawhitney Lek, Tala Madani, Maria Maea, Michael Massenburg, Anthony Lee Pittman, Devin Reynolds, Gabriela Ruiz, Peter Shire, and Sonya Sombreuil. All photos are captured by Joppe Jacob Rog.
Together, these portraits compose an unofficial record of the Los Angeles artist community today, a constellation of studios, connections, and stories shaped by artists who sustain creativity through shared space and mutual support. Artists in Space stands as a celebration of these voices and a reminder that community remains the most essential foundation for art to thrive.
Artists in Space marks a full-circle moment for Mr. Wash, who first picked up a paintbrush while serving a life sentence for a crime he did not commit. Serving as an art instructor in three different penitentiaries, Wash discovered the power of art as both a form of expression and a means of escape. After receiving clemency from President Obama and returning to Compton, Wash has dedicated himself to sharing art’s transformative potential with his Los Angeles community.
“In many ways, the process of creating Artists in Space became a source of inspiration,” shares Mr. Wash. “This project will help bring a long-held dream to life, but also reframes my understanding of what a studio can be, beyond the confines of incarceration. Studio practice is often solitary, and much like my prison experience, these studio visits underscore the importance of exchanging stories and sharing space to help you actualize your own vision."
Each purchase of Artists in Space plants a direct seed in Compton with all proceeds going toward building the Art By Wash Studio & Community Center. This in-progress community hub, founded by Mr. Wash, is a reflection of his journey and a realization of his mission to share the transformative power of art with others.
Currently in its blueprint stage with support from Morphosis Architects and The NOW Institute, the center will be a space where art becomes a tool for change, offering community members a path away from incarceration and toward creative self-expression. It will also serve as a vital bridge for individuals returning home from prison, offering support and reintegration resources, especially for those who developed their artistic practice during incarceration. At its core, the Art By Wash Studio & Community Center will embody Mr. Wash’s belief that creativity can heal and change lives, and that everyone deserves a place to imagine, create, and belong.
ARTISTS IN SPACE is now available for pre-orders. For more information, visit www.artbywash.com.
