Two separate programs at New South Wales correctional facilities allow inmates to create and sell artwork and metal sculptures, with proceeds benefiting themselves and their families.
Metal Sculpture Program at Macquarie Correctional Centre
An inmate identified as Blake at Macquarie Correctional Centre in western New South Wales uses 3D modeling software to design metal sculptures. Blake learned computer skills during his incarceration and has a background in carpentry.
He designed a steel bull that was sold to a hotel in Tamworth. The design took three and a half months to complete and involved 450 welded parts. Another inmate, Chris, welded the bull's parts.
Correctional officer Lyndall Barlow, formerly an architect, supervises the design room. Manager of industries Peter Mason stated sculptures can sell for upwards of $5,000. A percentage of proceeds goes to inmates' families.
Governor Justin Quinn noted the program helps inmates learn skills for employment after release. Inmates' next project is a metal flower bulb sculpture. Inmate work is also used in the agricultural industry.
Art Program at Long Bay Correctional Complex
John, a 75-year-old Aboriginal inmate at Sydney's Long Bay Correctional Complex, creates paintings depicting animals such as emus and kangaroos, typically taking two weeks per piece. He learned painting from other artists before his incarceration and now assists other Aboriginal inmates with their artwork. The paintings feature both traditional ochre and brighter colors.
Artworks created by John and other Aboriginal inmates were purchased by the Department of Communities and Justice for $12,000 through the Boom Gate Gallery. This gallery, part of the Long Bay Correctional Complex, enables the public to purchase inmate art. Inmates receive 75 percent of the proceeds, with the remaining 25 percent covering gallery operating costs. Inmates can access these funds while imprisoned, send money to family, or use it to acquire art supplies.
A total of sixteen artworks were acquired by the department and are displayed at Sydney's Downing Centre courthouse complex, following recent flood-related renovations.
Expert CommentaryCraig Raymond, a psychologist and Wiradjuri man at the Long Bay Correctional Complex, stated that painting can facilitate a connection between Indigenous inmates and their families or communities. He noted that Indigenous individuals, who tend to be more collective, may be more significantly impacted by separation from their communities than non-Indigenous individuals.
Raymond referenced the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Social and Emotional Wellbeing model, which highlights the importance of connection to body, mind, emotions, family, kinship, community, culture, country, spirit, and ancestries. He asserted that providing Indigenous inmates with opportunities for artistic expression helps address these needs.
"Aboriginal artwork in prison is a preventative measure, not a privilege." — Craig Raymond
Raymond views Aboriginal artwork in prison as a preventative measure rather than a privilege. He indicated that it reduces harm, promotes calm, provides links to family and culture, and can offer benefits post-release, potentially enabling individuals to continue as artists. He also stated that Indigenous inmate artwork contributes to 'closing the gap' initiatives, suggesting that culture, including artwork, should be central to rehabilitation efforts.
Statistical ContextAccording to Raymond, the representation of Indigenous Australians in the prison population stands at 30 to 40 percent, compared to their 3.8 percent share of the general population.