Member since 2021

Whitney Kretchek

Interdisciplinary Artist | Painter | Textile Artist

Member since 2021

Whitney Kretchek is an Ohio-based artist whose drawings, paintings, and textile work explore prison abolition, domestic violence, healing, resilience, and social justice. Grounded in her lived experience as someone directly impacted by incarceration, her layered visual narratives honor the dignity and humanity of those most affected by systems of violence and incarceration. Whitney has been a member of the Returning Artists Guild since 2021.

Artist statement

I create vivid, richly textured work that explores prison abolition, domestic violence, healing, resilience, and social justice. As an Ohio-based artist and longtime member of the Returning Artists Guild, my work is grounded in my lived experience as someone directly impacted by incarceration.

Through layered imagery and visual storytelling, I examine the realities of incarceration and violence while honoring the strength, dignity, and humanity of those most impacted. I hope my art creates space for dialogue, challenges assumptions, and brings attention to issues that are often overlooked. I make art to inspire reflection, foster understanding, and encourage meaningful conversations about justice, accountability, healing, and the possibility of transformation.

Whitney Kretchek

Artist statement

Calendar items featuring Whitney Kretchek

Trust the Process

Imagining Abolition: Family Reunion