“Redemption Time” is a 70-minute multimedia concert film that weaves together the stories and work of two formerly incarcerated artists: the celebrated poet Jimmy Santiago Baca, and renowned jazz violinist Christian Howes.
Redemption Time seeks positive change by raising awareness of the importance of sentencing and prison reform, literacy, mental health, arts in education, trauma and recovery, and social justice.
“the volatile substance that made us who we are we churn in the musical and poetic thrasher and mill it fine into a sublime nourishment for the heart and soul of our listeners”
“Redemption/TIME” is a compelling and inspirational multimedia performance that brings together two extraordinary talents from different walks of life. Jimmy Santiago Baca, an accomplished American poet and memoirist, and Christian Howes, a renowned jazz violin virtuoso, have united their unique experiences and artistic prowess in a collaboration that transcends boundaries.
“the lessons I learned in prison about life, music and survival, became seeds which bore fruit throughout the past many years of my work as an artist, teacher and mentor”
“Redemption/TIME” is not just a performance; it’s an anthem of contemporary America. Directed by Dr. David Gonzalez, this project combines the spoken word of Baca and the musical virtuosity of Howes to inspire a new generation. Their collaboration bridges the gap between poetry and music, offering hard-won life lessons and powerful voices to a broad audience. It’s a testament to resilience, transformation, and the enduring human spirit.
“Redemption/TIME braids together the magnificence of Baca’s poetic genius, the exquisite and soulful musicality of Christian Howes and compelling video design into a performance work that will inspire, educate and motivate audiences across the country.”
Their message is clear: even in the face of adversity, redemption is possible, and creativity can be a beacon of hope.
As a live performance and streaming experience, “Redemption/TIME” is a unique opportunity to witness the convergence of two remarkable artists who have overcome challenges and now strive to make a positive impact on the world. Their story is a testament to the importance of embracing the business side of one’s craft and creating opportunities. Get ready to be inspired and motivated by this extraordinary odyssey of redemption and creativity.
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On April 19, 2026, at 4:00 PM, Trinity United Methodist Church will host a special screening event of Redemption Time, a 70-minute performance film featuring poet Jimmy Santiago Baca and Asheville-based jazz violinist Christian Howes — artists whose lives were shaped by incarceration and who now give voice to stories of dignity, struggle, and renewal.
Directed by David Gonzalez, the film blends spoken word poetry, live jazz, and cinematic storytelling into a powerful experience tracing journeys from trauma and incarceration toward healing, belonging, and personal freedom.
The event invites the community to reflect on themes that resonate far beyond the screen — belonging and isolation, judgment and dignity, harm and healing, and the possibility of second chances. Admission is free, with optional donations.
The program will begin with live music and poetry readings, followed by the film screening, a panel discussion, and a closing reception at Deep Time AVL. The reception offers attendees an opportunity to connect and reflect on the film’s themes with neighbors, artists, and community partners.
This event is part of Second Chance Month, a national campaign raising awareness about the impacts of incarceration while encouraging second-chance opportunities and community reintegration.
Community partners include Deep Time AVL, 12 Baskets Café, Asheville Poverty Initiative, the Buncombe County Re-entry Council, the UNCA Prison Education Program, and Trinity United Methodist Church.
Sunday, April 19, 2026
4:00–4:20 PM — Live Music & Poetry
4:20–5:30 PM — Redemption Time Screening
5:30–5:50 PM — Panel Discussion
5:50–6:15 PM — Reception
Location:
Trinity United Methodist Church
587 Haywood Road
Asheville, NC 28806
Film info and trailer:
https://redemptiontimeshow.com/
Redemption Time centers on two artists who emerged from incarceration to become powerful voices for change. The film confronts injustice while lifting up human dignity, creative resilience, and personal healing. Through an intimate blend of artistic forms and storytelling, the work explores universal tensions — belonging and isolation, judgment and dignity, harm and healing — while inviting viewers to look beyond labels and consider what it means to be human, to belong, and to begin again.
“Redemption Time transcends dualities… It’s a profound invitation into the deepest truths of our shared humanity.”
— Dr. Peter Candler, Author
Christian Howes
Producer, Redemption Time
chris@christianhowes.com
(614) 332-8689
Jess Godden
Community Outreach Coordinator
Trinity United Methodist Church
trinitywavl@gmail.com
828-253-5471 ext. 101
Previews of the full film available upon request.