Charles Finney was an artist of uncommon devotion and originality. Living on death row in Florida, he found a way to build a world of beauty from the smallest materials at hand. With paper, Q-tips, and other found objects, he crafted intricate sculptures that carried both delicacy and force. He later taught himself to draw, developing a pencil technique marked by exquisite detail, patience, and a quiet, unmistakable precision.
Charles passed of natural causes on November 19, 2024. He was loved deeply by his friends, his family, and the entire Unconditional Freedom Project team. Those close to him shared that creating art and sharing it brought him profound joy and purpose. He felt honored knowing his work would be seen, held, and valued by many.
Two of his pieces, the Black Tara sculpture and his sculpted Elephant, sit on the Unconditional Freedom Buddhist altar, blessed by our Tibetan teacher. They stand as living testaments to his creativity, resilience, and spirit.
Even within the harshest confines, Charles shaped beautiful works of art with very few materials to work with.. His work continues to move those who encounter it, carrying forward the quiet brilliance of an artist who transformed limitation into devotion.