In Just Mercy, the 2020–21 One Book One Northwestern selection, author Bryan Stevenson calls on each of us to reckon with the failings of a complex, unfairly harsh, and often unaccountable criminal justice system. This selection of artworks from The Block’s collection reflects on themes, events, and ideas from Just Mercy. Works by ten artists—contemporary and historic—amplify and deepen our engagement with the book by bringing different backgrounds and perspectives into dialogue with it. The artworks address such issues as systemic racism, discrimination, and failures of the justice system, alongside artworks that allow us to reflect on racial and economic injustice and social inequities through a broader lens.
Just Mercy also reminds us that compassion and empathy are fundamental to our own human dignity. In connection with the book, the artworks presented speak to Stevenson’s belief that “the true measure of our character is how we treat the poor, the disfavored, the accused, the incarcerated, the condemned.” We invite the Northwestern community to use these works as an opportunity to connect to the themes of the text, whether they be used as a springboard for private contemplation or discussion with others. We are happy to provide a shareable pdf booklet for teaching and engagement. You can schedule a class visit to discuss these works in person in our study center by contacting Essi Rönkkö at essi.ronkko@northwestern.edu.
