Martha Ackerman is an artist and coauthor of Create: New Beginnings restorative art workshop. She is also the founder of Martha Ackerman Jewelry. She and her husband, James, have two adult children, Holden and Lily.

Martha’s experience with art and design began with her work in the fashion industry in New York City. She also has a passion for women’s issues, and over the years has volunteered with several organizations that address gender-based violence, offering spiritual encouragement and growth, peace, and security.

As a creative, Martha poured her passion for art and beauty and her compassion for women’s struggles into the curriculum for Create: New Beginnings, which is now actively growing and being used in dozens of sites both inside and outside of prison.