Warren Hynson’s life story is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the transformative power of art. His journey, marked by adversity and ultimately triumph, began in the most unlikely of places – a prison cell.
From a young age, Warren was drawn to the creative world. “Like many aspiring artists,” he shares, “my fascination with art began with school field trips to art museums. I was deeply involved in the art club at Washington & Lee High School in Montross, Virginia.” He dreamed of a career as an artist, but life had other plans.
At just 17, a fateful decision entangled Warren in a robbery gone wrong, resulting in the tragic death of John Milton Branch. Though not the shooter, he was sentenced to life in prison. Faced with this harsh reality, Warren battled depression and despair. “Initially,” he recounts, “I struggled with depression and thoughts of suicide in prison.”
But within those confining walls, a spark ignited. He discovered art as a lifeline, a way to channel his emotions, confront his past, and envision a future beyond the bars. “I found solace and inspiration through art,” Warren explains. “I use my art to convey my entire journey – the pain, struggles, fears, enlightenment, and, ultimately, my personal growth.”
Finding Freedom in Art
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 Warren’s raw talent and unwavering determination caught the eye of those who recognized his potential. He honed his skills, painting portraits for fellow inmates and their families. He even spearheaded the prison’s art club, fostering a sense of community and creativity. His drive to share his art with the outside world led to exhibitions and a solo show at the Maryland Institute College of Art, all while still incarcerated.
“I knew at that point that I had something,” Warren reflects, “and felt that upon my release, I was going to pursue art as a career.”
In 2019, after 28 years, Warren was finally free from prison. He emerged with a renewed sense of purpose, ready to embrace his second chance at life and determined to use his experiences to help others. “Today, I am dedicated to my art, mentoring troubled youth and advocating for changes in the legal system to prevent others from enduring the same experiences I went through.”Â
A Credible Messenger of Hope
Warren’s journey led him to Sasha Bruce Youthwork, where he now serves as the Program Manager for the Credible Messenger Program. This innovative program recognizes the power of shared experiences. As a Credible Messenger, Warren connects with youth on probation, offering guidance, empathy, and a powerful example of how to rewrite your story.
He shares his story openly and honestly, acknowledging his mistakes and the devastating consequences of his actions. He speaks to the challenges of re-entering society after decades of incarceration, the difficulty of adjusting to a changed world, and the vital importance of family support.
“It’s been tough for me to adjust to the changes in the world since I left in 1991,” Warren admits. “My family sometimes expects me to know things that I don’t. I went as a seventeen-year-old and grew up while I was away.”
But most importantly, he emphasizes the transformative power of art and the resilience of the human spirit. He shows these young people that they have the power to choose a different path, to overcome their challenges, and to create a brighter future for themselves.
He reminds them:
“No child is born bad; they may simply make poor decisions. Regardless of how the world perceives you, it’s important to hold yourself accountable and strive to do good so that you can be proud of who you are.”
A Message to the Community
Warren’s art continues to be an integral part of his story. His abstract paintings, bursting with color and texture, are a testament to his journey. They speak of pain and struggle, but also of hope, redemption, and the enduring strength of the human spirit. He sees himself as a caterpillar who, through perseverance and self-reflection, transformed into a butterfly.
“While I was in a cocoon,” he says, “I’ve learned to use people’s negative opinions as motivation to keep pushing forward, growing, and evolving into the butterfly I am today.”
He encourages his mentees to find their own form of expression and resilience. “I enjoy painting with various mediums,” he shares, “such as acrylics, oil pastels, paint markers, and charcoal. I’m known for working on medium to large-size canvases and creating textures with ceramic tile adhesive.”
Warren is also a passionate advocate for change within the justice system. He reminds us that most incarcerated individuals eventually return to their communities, and it is in everyone’s best interest to provide them with opportunities for growth and rehabilitation.
“You can’t get apples from orange seeds,” Warren emphasizes, “nor oranges from apple seeds; you can’t expect love to come from hate. Love begets love.”
He encourages returning citizens to seek out mentors and support systems, reminding them to never give up hope, even in the face of adversity. “Focus on the one thing that is going right,” he advises, “direct all your attention and intention to that, and watch as blessings come your way.”
To his colleagues at Sasha Bruce Youthwork, he offers this powerful message:
“The youth we serve today will one day be the leaders of our society… It is our duty to plant the seeds of growth in them. We must show them love, teach them to love, and encourage them to choose love over hate.”
Through his art, his mentorship, and his advocacy, Warren Hynson is making a profound impact. He is a living example of the power of second chances, a testament to the transformative power of art, and an inspiration to us all
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This blog is the first in a series dedicated to highlighting the frontline staff at Sasha Bruce Youthwork, who are redefining the homeless youth experience in the District of Columbia and beyond. Through their stories, discover the innovative approaches and deep commitment driving real change in the lives of young people in our community.
