William James Association

About William James Association

The William James Association began in 1973 to promote work service in the arts, environment, education, and community development. Since 1977, WJA’s Prison Arts Project has brought exceptional artists into prisons throughout California.  Acting on the conviction that the fine arts enrich, heal and bring communities together, we seek to provide the most meaningful arts experiences possible. It is based on over four decades of engagement with thousands of men, women and youths in the justice system that we know art fosters hope & changes lives.  

Working with the California Arts Council and funding from the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation, WJA currently contracts with over 80 artists to offer programs in 17 California Prisons. The administrative offices are in downtown Santa Cruz, California.