MANCHESTER.- Arts by Offenders is an exhibition of artwork produced in prisons, special hospitals and by people on probation in the North West of England. This evocative and thought-provoking collection of fine art, craft and creative writing was selected from hundreds of the area’s entries to the 2009 Koestler Awards – a charitable scheme which has been rewarding artistic achievement in the penal and secure sectors for over 45 years.

The Koestler Trust has held exhibitions in London since the sixties, but this is its first exhibition in the North West and the first time that entrants from the region have been eligible for additional awards. The opportunity to enter a prestigious awards programme, get feedback from experts, and be included in a public exhibition is a huge boost to the artists’ self esteem and motivation, as well as improving their connection to home. These factors all help in rehabilitation and reducing reoffending.

This exhibition is part of a two-year project to encourage rehabilitation and participation through the arts in Scotland and North West England, which has been supported by The Co-operative. As part of this project there has also been an exhibition of work from Scotland held in Edinburgh in August 2009, and there will be another exhibition in Scotland in 2010 and the North West in 2011.

Exhibition details:
Holden Gallery
Manchester Metropolitan University
Monday to Saturday, 10am to 4pm
24th February – 16 March
Free entry