Alcatraz Island

Drawing, Alcatraz Work Assignments
By James Widmer
c 1944
Many inmates filled their off-duty hours by painting and drawing. They were permitted to have art supplies in their cells. About 1944, one inmate, James Widmer, relaxed by making pen-and-ink drawings of the principal work assignments at Alcatraz, including: making clothing for the military personnel and inmates; making wood products [such as letter trays, drawers, and boxes] in the “model shop;” and working in the prison blacksmith and tool shops.
Paper, ink, tape, string. L 66, W 50 cm
Golden Gate National Recreation Area, GOGA 12450



Drawing, Alcatraz Work Assignments By James Widmer c 1944 Many inmates filled their off-duty hours by painting and drawing. They were permitted to have art supplies in their cells. About 1944, one inmate, James Widmer, relaxed by making pen-and-ink drawings of the principal work assignments at Alcatraz, including: making clothing for the military personnel and inmates; making wood products [such as letter trays, drawers, and boxes] in the “model shop;” and working in the prison blacksmith and tool shops. Paper, ink, tape, string. L 66, W 50 cm Golden Gate National Recreation Area, GOGA 12450
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