Exonerated: Honoring the Wrongfully Convicted Through Art

A PERETZ FOUNDATION Exhibition

On March 23, 2025, the PERETZ FOUNDATION proudly hosted the opening reception of Exonerated: Portraits of the Wrongfully Convicted at the Cary Saurage Community Arts Center—a deeply moving evening that blended art, justice, and human resilience.

The exhibition features 23 photorealistic ceramic busts by acclaimed artist Becky Gottsegen, each representing an individual wrongfully incarcerated in Louisiana. These powerful sculptures are more than portraits—they are monuments to survival, dignity, and the enduring spirit of those who have faced injustice.

Voices of Redemption

Many of the exonerees were present, sharing their personal stories of pain, perseverance, and hope. Their testimonies sparked profound conversations about the flaws in our justice system and the urgent need for reform.

We were honored to welcome Jee Park, Executive Director of Innocence Project New Orleans (IPNO), whose tireless advocacy helped secure the freedom of many featured individuals. Her words reminded us that justice is not just a legal concept—it’s a moral imperative.

🎨 Art as Advocacy

At the PERETZ FOUNDATION, we believe that art can be a powerful tool for social change. “Exonerated” is a testament to that belief—an exhibition that invites reflection, demands accountability, and honors the humanity of those who were silenced.

This event was made possible through the generous support of Tricia Day & Joe Simmons, Mary Ann Sternberg, and Winifred & Kevin Reilly. We thank them for standing with us in this mission.

📅 On Display Until May 14, 2025

If you missed the opening, there’s still time to experience this unforgettable exhibition. Visit before May 14 to witness the intersection of art and justice—and to stand in solidarity with those whose stories deserve to be seen and heard.