Mission

More Light is a non-profit organization committed to uplifting incarcerated and marginalized persons using unique art programming for healing and social change. Our mission is rooted in the vision of Founder and Executive Director George Morton, drawing upon his life experience, including ten years in federal prison, and his expertise in the classical tradition of drawing and painting. George was the first African-American artist to graduate from the Florence Academy of Art.

More Light’s approach centers on amplifying the voices and expertise of those directly affected by the American criminal legal system through arts education, community fellowship, and creative practice. Through our programming we aim to inspire, heal and support people currently incarcerated, people post-incarceration and people affected and marginalized by incarceration

About

George Morton is the Founder and Executive Director of More Light. George is an Atlanta-based, award-winning artist whose talent transcends classical drawing, painting, teaching and filmmaking.

George’s artistic journey began in childhood when he sought to capture the world around him as faithfully as his eyes saw it. Much like many, he was the “artistic kid” recognized by teachers and peers. However, his backdrop quickly transformed from elementary and middle school to group homes, juvenile facilities, and eventually federal prison, where his natural talents still received recognition.

George’s skills continued to develop in his twenties, where he honed his craft during a ten-year sentence in federal prison, dedicating himself to studying the Classical-Realist tradition with rigorous determination. Upon his release, George secured a coveted spot at the prestigious Florence Academy of Art, making history as the first Black student to graduate from the institution. His exceptional talent garnered recognition, earning him competitive awards for Best Figure Drawing in 2015 and Best Portrait Drawing in 2016.

George’s passion for art extends beyond his own creations; he has traveled extensively across the United States, sharing his expertise and teaching at correctional facilities, universities, and renowned art museums. His work has even been featured in esteemed exhibitions like “Marking Time: Art in the Age of Mass Incarceration” at MoMA PS1. In collaboration with others, George co-created the award-winning documentary “Master of Light,” which offers a poignant exploration of racial injustice, intergenerational trauma, and resilience through his artistry. The film has garnered top accolades, including recognition at the 2022 SXSW Film Festival, and is currently available for streaming on HBO MAX.

George’s remarkable life and work have been profiled in prominent publications such as the New York Times, Forbes, Wall Street Journal, and USA Today, solidifying his status as an influential figure in both the art world and social discourse.

George always remembers reaching out to established artists in his art books and magazines, hoping for a mentor, but attempts went unanswered. Today George remains inspired by his desire to offer something he wish that he had during his time served and is the reason he created More Light.

Programs

Phase I

Creative Practice for Prison Arts Education
More Light is currently executing a 10-hour pilot art module titled “Healing Through Creative Practice” within the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (“CDCR”) curriculum. This course has been meticulously crafted to explore classical drawing techniques while emphasizing the profound impact of creative thinking and skill-based learning on personal growth and healing.

Through this pilot work in California, we have identified a stark gap in the system, with minimal opportunities for arts education and its healing powers available to the 95,000+ incarcerated individuals in the state alone. More Light will expand the curriculum beyond the CDCR system and extend our reach to next Georgia state prisons, beginning with the Burruss Correctional Facility, where teaching sessions have already been conducted. This expansion will facilitate both synchronous and asynchronous learning experiences, providing incarcerated individuals with invaluable opportunities for growth and development. By nurturing creativity in carceral settings, More Light aims to unlock hidden talents and foster resilience in the face of adversity.

System Impacted Arts Education for Youth
A dynamic 10-week pilot program meticulously crafted to empower young individuals affected by the criminal legal system through the transformative power of art. Twice a week, each session serves as a sanctuary for self-expression and exploration. As part of the immersive experience, participants embark on two field trips. The first takes them on a journey through the halls of a local museum, where they are exposed to the rich tapestry of artistic history and culture.

The second adventure leads them to a bustling art studio, where they witness firsthand the magic of creation and innovation. Participants will proudly showcase their artistic endeavors in a culminating gallery art show. More Light ensures that no barrier stands between the participants and their artistic journey. All necessary supplies are provided, ensuring that each young person has the tools they need to unleash their creative potential.

Phase II

Phase II programming will include More Light Atelier South Apprenticeships. More Light will select up to five leaders who have experienced incarceration or systemic impact providing them with training and direct instruction in traditional painting. Facilitated through a strategic partnership with The Goat Farm Art Center in Atlanta, Georgia, participants gain catalytic knowledge, valuable relationships, and practical skills over the 6-month, non-residential program.

More Light will look to have a longer, 70 hour training model in every prison and youth detention center in the U.S. And More Light also is focused also providing student school study services in conjunction with its art study. In addition, More Light will look to create Atelier North in NYC, Atelier Mid-West in Chicago and Atelier West in Los Angeles, the three other major centers of art in the U.S. Finally, More Light will have a comprehensive resource program that introduces its youth and fellowship awardees to industry and jobs where art training can be applied.

Press