Art by offenders from HMP Belmarsh – 2009 12 October to 14 November
The work currently on show at the Mary Ward Centre is from the students who attended my art classes in the education department at Belmarsh this year. We run sessions every day for learners of all levels and experiences – for many it is the first time back in a classroom setting for several years.
We try to keep the atmosphere as relaxed as possible, given where we are, and I like to think that the learners are able to cut off from their surroundings for the few hours they are in the room. The class isn’t just about forgetting though, it is about unlocking minds. I feel that the class gets the learners to think and look at themselves more – and reflect on how their work will be interpreted by you. This is a crucial step for offenders to make as they have, in the past, failed to consider the effect of their actions on others.
The work is of a high standard this year (with more success in the Koestler Award) and I hope you enjoy it as much as I find running the classes rewarding.
