Tribulation

Tribulation Jose Benesario Nieves (AKA Chino) Acrylic on parachute cloth, stretched Size: 38”W x 38"H  Framing available upon request “I remember walking towards my cell thinking as I asked myself 3 questions. What does the weight of time do? What does the weight of time mean to me? How has the weight of time impacted my life? As I enter my cell and do what I usually do as a habit, I wash my hands when I look up seeing my reflection in the mirror and it hits me. My questions were answered instantly. The weight of time changed me physically; I went to prison young and now I am older seeing the grays on my beard and my bald head told me the tale. The weight time also changed me mentally, emotionally, and spiritually. Maturing in prison has humbled me. It helped me realize how precious life is and how I took many things for granted when I was free.” Jose Benesario is an artist born in 1988 Puerto Rico. He migrated to the United States in 1992 and settled in North Philadelphia. From a young age, Benesario demonstrated remarkable artistic talent. Despite life challenges, including leaving high school early, he pursued meaningful work, serving as a peer mentor for Congress. Subsequent life circumstances led to his incarceration in 2013. While incarcerated, Benesario rediscovered his passion for visual art, embarking on a transformative journey that allowed him to give back to his community through creativity. His work reflects resilience, self-redefinition, and a commitment to motivating those who face their own challenges.