Daniel Gwynn

Artist, Motivational Speaker, and Advocate

A Story of Resilience, Redemption, and Creativity

Daniel Gwynn, born on January 12, 1970 in West Philadelphia, PA, is a self-taught artist, muralist, and motivational speaker whose life is a testament to the power of perseverance and transformation.

“I was raised by my Grandmother and attended John Barry Elementary, Shoemaker Jr. High, and West Philadelphia High School. I held several jobs throughout the years: Dishwasher, Line Cook, Maintenance, Janitorial, House Painter, Construction and Automobile Sunroof Installer.

My  life took a dramatic turn in November 1995 when I was wrongly convicted of arson and   murder and sentenced to death

 During the trial, I thought that the jury would realize the mistake made and let me go , but the attorney representing me didn’t put up much of a fight. Instead, I was standing before 12 angry jurors fueled by the lies and fabricated evidence shouting “GUILTY” one by one with extreme confidence that they were doing the right thing. This really didn’t hit me until the sentencing phase, where the jury voted to execute me. I stood there at the defense table motionless and stunned into silence. I was worried more for my family than myself. How would they cope with their loved one being executed by the State and being known for killing people? I wanted to die so they wouldn’t suffer any longer.

Entering PA’s death row unit, there was an eerie silence; the only sounds were the heels of my State issued boots and that of the guard escorts. There was an inhuman stench that you could taste in the back of your throat as I was led through the halls toward my cell on the second tier. The metal door creaked, then a loud bang as the cell door was flung open. I crossed the threshold into this den adorned with metal, concrete & the spirits of those before me. After a command to remain still or get cracked with their baton, the shackles were removed from my ankles and then the restraint belt was loosened so the guards could maneuver me towards the slot on the door as they closed it with a heart wrenching bang. With my hands pulled through the tiny slot, the handcuffs were finally removed and the metal slot slammed shut with finality as if it was the last nail in my coffin. I stood there leaning against the cell door and thought, “Finally, I can cry.” 

After coming to death row, painting was my therapy in a world devoid of any positive stimulation. It helped me survive this hostile environment while working through the emotional baggage that drove me to hurting myself and my family by using drugs. Painting helped me understand that none of this was my fault, and it definitely wasn't the family's fault either. While incarcerated and creating art I also obtained a GED, and a Paralegal Degree.” 

After spending nearly three decades behind bars, in June, 2023 Daniel’s death sentence was overturned and on February 28, 2024 he was fully exonerated and released from prison.

Since regaining his freedom, Daniel has emerged as a powerful force in the art and motivational speaking world. While honing his artistic skills and creating new art he is also now a Certified Peer Specialist. Daniel has dedicated himself to using art as a medium for storytelling and healing. He has dedicated his time to:

Touring as a motivational speaker, sharing his story of wrongful conviction and perseverance to inspire others.

Painting a mural that reflects themes of resilience, justice, and community activism for Mural Arts Phila.

Exhibiting his artwork in public venues, exhibits, conferences, bringing his powerful vision and experiences to audiences across the country.

Live painting shows, where he blends storytelling with artistry, captivating viewers in real-time.

Daniel Gwynn’s journey from injustice to inspiration is a powerful reminder of the human spirit’s ability to overcome adversity. Through his art and advocacy, he continues to leave a lasting impact on communities, using creativity as both a healing tool and a call for justice.