Reviews

"The documentary tells about the thorny evolution of an art project meant to unite inmates and the community, which started as a mere sketch of an idea in the minds of the inmates of Graterford State Prison. ...  Behind the iron bars of the law, two inmates speak. We see Tom's hands, the glint of his glasses as they dip in and out of the camera frame trained on his stubbly chin, the white shirt peeking out of his maroon jumper, as he expresses a sense of powerlessness in being able to make reparations. ..."
- Kate Strong, Restorative Justice Online (Read full review)

"This is an extraordinary film. In intimate fashion, it chronicles the ability of art to facilitate some of the most difficult dialogues possible—those that occur between offenders and victims. The convergence of these separate realities as depicted in Concrete Steel & Paint will inspire thoughtful discussion wherever it is shown."
- Grady Hillman, Community Arts Activist

"This documentary is a great instrument to introduce the concept of restorative justice. It depicts the true struggles of trying to balance the rights and feelings of all involved, victims, offenders and the community. It does so by taking you down a true journey of pain, healing and compromise that many face in the aftermath of crime. This film will inspire great dialogue in many settings."
- Judy Cruz-Ransom, Philadelphia Coalition for Victim Advocacy

"Concrete Steel & Paint portrays the core values of restorative justice—respect, responsibility and relationships—expressed through art. It is art that involves victims, offenders and communities in a dialogue that is sometimes difficult and painful, sometimes reconciling, but always engaging. As one prisoner says in the film, 'We have come together collectively through art.' It will be a great discussion tool for college classes, community groups and others interested in issues of justice, community-building, conflict resolution and socially-engaged art."
- Howard Zehr, Professor of Restorative Justice, Eastern Mennonite University


"Artists and their collaborators know that the healing power of art is miraculous, but it can be challenging to convey that knowledge to those not directly involved. Concrete Steel & Paint rises fully to that challenge. Viewers will feel and understand the complex human processes, the multiple truths, and the remarkable depth of making art in community. I recommend it without reservation."
- Arlene Goldbard, Author, New Creative Community: The Art of Cultural Development


"This film takes us through the process of translating ideas, feelings and hopes into art that can speak to the public about justice and redemption, but it is also the story of transformation, as offenders and victims resolve heart-felt differences and gaps in their awareness, and come together to build something beautiful. In an academic setting this film can illustrate the complexities of issues like of victim awareness, offender reintegration, and restorative justice, and help to begin conversations that add depth to what students read."
- Phil Harris, Associate Professor of Criminal Justice, Temple University