Prisoners’ prize-winning art is now on display at South Regional TAFE

Two prisoners from Albany Regional Prison have won first place in an Aboriginal art competition in the Great Southern.

The men and their original artworks depicting Bluff Knoll in the Stirling Ranges and the popular Dog Rock shared first prize.

The competition was open to Aboriginal students studying at South Regional TAFE.

The two men were enrolled in the visual arts course through Albany Regional Prison’s education centre.

Both paintings are set in Noongar country and the artists have linked Dreamtime stories to the paintings.

The winning artwork is now displayed at the South Regional TAFE Albany Jobs and Skills Centre which provides free, culturally sensitive support and guidance on careers, training and employment advice and assistance.

Superintendent of the Albany prison Charlie Tuck said receiving such an accolade for their art was positive recognition for the two prisoners and the work they put in.

“The prisoners have also been helping promising Aboriginal artists in custody as peer tutors,” he said.

Department of Justice Director-General Dr Adam Tomison said art programs helped foster an environment of learning for prisoners and provided a pathway to further education, training and employment opportunities.

“This was especially important for the reintegration into the community and rehabilitation of Aboriginal prisoners, who were over-represented in our criminal justice system,” he said.

“Art can also encourage Aboriginal prisoners to identify with country and their culture.”

Corrective Services Commissioner Mike Reynolds said winning the art competition provided the prisoners with a sense of achievement.

“Producing these quality artworks will hopefully inspire the prisoners to continue building their skills and working towards being productive members of the community,” he said.

South Regional TAFE managing director Darshi Ganeson congratulated the winning entrants and said the artwork was colourful, bold and deeply connected to Noongar Country.

“It was a great achievement for these two students and demonstrated not only their skills in the visual arts but also the commitment towards their learning and development,” she said.

“Their work can be reflected on and enjoyed by all who visit the Albany campus reception.”