*Free Bird* Art by Pedro Rodriguez

My name is Pedro Rodriguez. I am 47 years old and I have been on death row in the state of Nevada since 1999. Although I’ve been in and out of these places since I was 13, this is my first time in prison. I was only 19 when I was arrested. I have spent the last 20 years trying to educate myself in what it means to be human. My first 8 years in prison, I did the gang thing and tried to make a name for myself. It seemed silly, I already had a name and a status in the eyes of my Creator. I’m not saying I became a religious fanatic. What I did become was a human being that was seeking happiness, and I knew that this would only come through love for others and love for myself. Now I spend my days in deep meditation, trying to generate the positive energy needed to face my day. I have been drawing since I was a child. I started using pastel chalks about 15 years ago, and it was the greatest move I ever made. It has opened up a world I never knew I could be a part of. This is what helped me to start doing portraits. My very first portrait was of my grandson. Well, I guess that’s it. Thank you for letting me share my story. With respect, Pedro Rodriguez Pedro Rodriguez #59114 H.D.S.P. P.O. Box 650 Indian Springs, NV 89070