Unique art exhibition comes to BGU

If you visit the Robert Hardy Building on campus, you will discover a selection of artworks each created by prisoners at HMP Morton Hall as part of their 12-week art programme.

Last week the exhibition launched and had an auction for specific pieces during opening night. The University collaborated with PeoplePlus UK to make this happen and from a social purpose and perspective, working closely with HMP Morton Hall helps support individuals to realise their ambitions and create positive change in their communities and beyond.

While open to all, the art studio supports prisoners with mental health issues and those struggling to participate in the prison’s mainstream education and training programmes. As part of rehabilitation, offenders undertake art sessions providing space to be creative and work with others in a safe environment. This exhibition provided the opportunity to showcase their innovative creations and reinforces the message that something positive can come out of prison life.

"When I draw or paint, it takes away the negative thoughts. I feel like I’ve found a new talent within myself that’s helping me grow out of my issues and keeps me away from insecurities I had before the course."

Allison Webb, Director of Business & Community Engagement, said "it is a special exhibition that gives the prisoners a voice" and Gillian Johnston (Programme Lead for Sociology and Criminology) stated at the opening night:

"Criminology is a new and exciting discipline for us at BGU, so when this initiative was first mooted a few months ago I jumped at the chance for us, as an institution and at a programme level, to be involved. It cannot be underestimated just how important these initiatives are in fostering relationships between organisations. Being able to collaborate with HMP Morton Hall on this important project is a delight for me and I hope this is the beginning of a long and fruitful relationship between us."

Samantha Boothman the Head of Education, Skills and Work at HMP Morton Hall said "we are delighted to be working with BGU on this unique event and very much looking forward to further collaboration."

Overall the auction raised £560 and these funds will go to Victim Support, Ambers Army (The PeoplePlus recognised charity for 2024), the prisoner who created the artwork, and for a new art studio kiln. The majority of the remaining artwork is for sale and the viewing public can buy item(s) through the silent auction process. Information on how to do this can be found in the foyer of the Robert Hardy Building.

"The art course is purposefully unaccredited; this enables men to learn not just about art and new techniques, but also to develop wider skills without being pressured to pass an exam. Everyone is able to work at their own pace and is guided to follow their own creative pathway. The art room is a space where the men can spend time out of their cell and share thoughts, worries and ideas whilst also developing their creativity. For many it is the first time they have experienced a classroom and using a pencil or paint brush. They are encouraged to help each other to be their best selves. I witness time and again how creativity and kindness to one another can totally change people for the better and improve their mental wellbeing." Karen Sharples – Art Lecturer at HMP Morton Hall.

PeoplePlus UK deliver the educational provision at the prison and you can watch their short video Bringing the Inside, Out which explains their purpose further. The exhibition runs from the 30th of May until 13th of June 2024 in the Robert Hardy Building, BGU.