Holly Mulcahy is the visionary founder and now Executive Director of Arts Capacity, a charitable 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to bringing live music and art as healing and coping sources to prisons. Holly’s vision for Arts Capacity is rooted in the belief that while incarcerated individuals are often provided with practical tools for reentry into society, such as vocational training and job interview skills, the most vital tools—those that enable emotional connection, creativity, and humanity—are frequently overlooked.
Holly’s mission with Arts Capacity is to share these essential tools through music and culture, empowering individuals to access their emotions and creativity, which are crucial for their success as free citizens. By offering a powerful coping mechanism and emotional outlet, Arts Capacity seeks to re-humanize a population that will eventually reintegrate into society as our future neighbors.
Arts Capacity’s performances are not typical concerts designed merely for entertainment. Instead, they serve as explorations of emotion and two-way conversations between musicians and audiences. These performances create moments of profound connection and understanding, offering a unique space for reflection and growth.
One particularly impactful moment for Holly was when a participant shared how the music helped them reconnect with feelings they thought were lost. This experience underscored the transformative power of music and reinforced Holly’s commitment to expanding Arts Capacity’s reach and impact.
Holly’s work with Arts Capacity has been featured internationally in both print and podcasts, garnering attention for its innovative approach to rehabilitation and its emphasis on emotional and character development. Through Arts Capacity, Holly continues to champion the idea that art and music can be powerful catalysts for change and healing within the prison system.