Aphrodite Collection

 

This artwork is an original piece by Dean McKee from his prison art book, titled "Aphrodite," and it was created on December 22, 2014 using color pencils that he was able to hold onto during his wrongful incarceration.

Dean found solace in the pages of Greek mythology, where he could immerse himself in a world far removed from his prison cell. His respect for Greek culture and mythology allowed him to mentally journey to different places with each turned page.

During this period, Dean found himself confined at Sumter CI due to a wrongful incarceration. In the face of these challenging circumstances, he dedicated a significant portion of his time to his artistry, nurturing a garden, treasuring the moments spent with loved ones, and nurturing a steadfast hope for his eventual freedom. The concept of "Hope" had a profound significance in Dean's life, even when believing in it was a considerable struggle. He clung to the hope of securing parole through the updated Youthful Offender legislation or the ongoing endeavors of the Innocence Project aimed at establishing his innocence.

Dean realized freedom January 9, 2018 due in great part to the efforts of the Innocence Project of Florida.