Ep 12. Women Behind Bars/The Business of Making Art

In Women Behind Bars/The Business of Making Art, VICE explores the complex issues surrounding women in the prison system and the role of art in society. The episode features two distinct segments that shed light on the experiences of incarcerated women and the challenges faced by artists who are trying to make a living in the creative industries.

The first segment examines the lives of women in prison, focusing on their unique experiences and the obstacles they face while incarcerated. VICE interviews current and former inmates, as well as activists and experts who work with incarcerated women. Through their stories, viewers gain insight into the realities of life behind bars, including the difficulties of accessing healthcare and mental health services, the impact of overcrowding on daily life, and the ongoing struggle for criminal justice reform.

The segment also examines the ways in which gender influences incarceration, including discrimination against trans women in the prison system and the fact that women are more likely to be incarcerated for nonviolent offenses. Viewers explore the impact of these structural biases on the lives of women in the system, as well as the work of activists who are striving to improve conditions and advocate for reform.

The second segment of the episode focuses on the business of making art, exploring the challenges faced by artists who are trying to make a living in an increasingly competitive and volatile market. VICE interviews a range of artists, including painters, musicians, and writers, who provide insight into the struggles and rewards of creative work.

Viewers learn about the challenges of building a career in the arts, including the need to balance artistic vision with commercial viability, the importance of social media and self-promotion, and the role of privilege in the industry. VICE also explores the ways in which different art forms intersect with broader social and cultural issues, from the political power of music to the impact of technology on traditional art forms.

Throughout the episode, VICE provides a nuanced and thought-provoking look at two topics that are often overlooked or misunderstood in broader society. By providing a platform for the voices of incarcerated women and struggling artists, the show offers a new perspective on these complex subjects, highlighting the human stories behind the statistics and policy debates. Overall, Women Behind Bars/The Business of Making Art is a compelling and thought-provoking episode that sheds light on two important areas of modern life.