There is to be an exhibition of prisoners’ creative work at the Isle of Man College over the Easter holidays.

A selection of arts, crafts and creative writing produced by prisoners will be displayed in the main hall of the Isle of Man College during normal opening hours over the holidays and is open for the public to view from 29th March – 4th April.

A comprehensive timetable of education is provided at the prison by the Isle of Man College. In art lessons prisoners have been exploring traditional techniques with their drawing tutor, Angie Patchett, creating self-portraits and renditions of classical sculptures. Painting and mixed media pieces reflect a more personal approach exploring individual themes, interests and interpretations of various art styles. One prisoner is quoted as saying, ‘The art class has enabled me to express myself in a positive way’.

Working with the craft tutor, Helen Watson, they have created soft furnishings, wall hangings and toys. Many use this class as an opportunity to make small gifts for their children and family.

Under the tutorship of Judith Tattersall and Gemma Middleton, English lessons have provided prisoners with the chance to work on creative writing and this can be very therapeutic. Writing poetry, autobiographical compositions, songs and story writing enables prisoners to express feelings and, perhaps, examine them.

In addition to work produced in classes, there is also on display work that prisoners have produced in their own time.
Also on display will be Morsbags, which are produced by the prison for Zero Waste Mann.

Bob McColm, prison governor, expressed his admiration for the high standard of the arts and crafts exhibited. “I have been amazed over the years at the many talents demonstrated by prisoners. This is yet another example of the creativity and skill that we should be looking to bring out of those who come to our education department.”

Following the exhibition, much of the work will go on to be entered for the Koestler awards. The Koestler Creative arts competition is open to all offenders and the Isle of Man Prison has an excellent record of success in this competition with over 30 entries last year.

Further details can be obtained from Fiona Robinson, Prison Education Manager, on 891049.