Inside Art - Mary Ward Exhibition
Inside Art Makes Its Outside Debut
A chance to exhibit externally fuelled the creative streak among Belmarsh and Pentonville inmates studying art as part of their rehabilitation.
The Level 1 to 3 Creative Art classes are part of a series of educational programmes run at the prison via Kensington and Chelsea College, and is aimed at rehabilitating prisoners and reducing the risk of re-offending.
Having successfully completed their course many prisoners can now look forward to debuting their work to the public at the Mary Ward Centre in Queens Square, London.
The eclectic collection being showcased for the 'Mary Ward Exhibition'
brings together a range work, each reflecting different ideas and themes.
Art tutor Marc Breen, who teaches the Creative Arts Course at Belmarsh, said: '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.'
'Through art, I like to think that the learners are able to cut off from their prison surroundings for the few hours they are in the class room.'
'But the course isn't just about forgetting where they are for a few hours, it's about unlocking minds and encouraging learners to look at themselves and develop the potential they have.'
The exhibition is free to attend and runs from January 10 to 31, at the Mary Ward Centre, 42 Queen Square, WC1N 3AQ. The centre is open Mon - Fri 10am - 9pm and Sat 10am - 4.30pm.
( Added: January 13, 2011 )
