OIP Presented Exclusive Preview of “Spiz” Documentary for TU Students

On February 15, 2023, Tiffin University hosted a community exclusive preview of “Spiz,” a documentary featuring Dean Gillispie. Gillispie was wrongfully convicted on three counts of rape in 1999. He spent 20 years in prison for these crimes.

The Ohio Innocence Project exonerated Gillispie after over two decades in prison. The documentary goes into detail about Gillispie’s time in prison and how he coped with being wrongfully imprisoned.

While in prison, Gillispie discovered a hidden talent of his: art. The documentary shows the intricate details of the pieces he built all from materials one can find in a prison. Gillispie’s pieces displayed so much talent that they are on display at the Museum of Modern Art in New York City. His reaction to his pieces on display moved the audience during the documentary preview last month.

The future public release of the documentary is not the only thing everyone should be looking forward to. Producer Barry Rowen was also present during the showing of the documentary at TU. He announced that the production team was recently awarded a $100,000 grant to further develop the documentary. Rowen estimated that the public would have access to “Spiz” within the next couple of years. 

Tiffin University loved taking part in the showing of the documentary and enthusiastically welcomed Dean Gillispie to share his story for the future leaders of the community to hear. Everyone needs to keep an eye out for the release of the documentary “Spiz” in the upcoming years and for further information on upcoming OIP events.

If there is one change you’re able to make in this world, let it be advocating for those who need it most.