John Zoccoli, MPS
Artist

Discovering my talent has not only provided me with an outlet to express myself, art gave me an identity. My ability is a blessing, and I have worked hard to develop my natural talent into a skill, one that I am proud of. My art has opened many doors for me, metaphorically, and actually. Art has allowed me a safe space to deal with the various traumas I have endured and allowed me to transform my pain into beauty, touch the life of others, and give me a sense of fulfillment like no other.

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When people view my art, they see the real me—and stigmas attached to being an ex-convict. I was arrested as a teenager, in 1995, and subsequently sentenced to 25-to-life. Adjusting to living out a sentence that was longer than the life I had lived was difficult. I struggled to find my way. The harm I caused others and my family, left an emptiness inside. Although I knew I could not undo what was already done, I decided that I could not continue down a path of negativity or allow prison to define me.

 

Making a choice to be a light in a dark place, my transformation began with art. Through creating art, I not only found a way to express myself, I discovered my calling in life--my purpose. I realized that, far from the thugs and gangsters I had idolized as a teen, I was an artist. While I have always had a natural ability in art, my art would not have the depth and meaning it has without education. I am eternally grateful to all the people who believed in and invested in me. I would not be the success I am without the help from others. Like them, I am doing my best to "be the change I want to see in the world."