Inmates finding art on the inside

Spring Hill inmates are making an impression that could soon decorate your walls.

Judi Wells-Henderson is a volunteer who takes painting classes once a week at the Corrections facility.

The idea is for inmates to sell their work to help the SPCA.

‘‘I had heard there were some incredible artists at Spring Hill in the tattooing field and also generally.

‘‘They do have time on their hands and they now have the opportunity to give it a go.

‘‘These days, art in prisons is totally accepted. It’s not seen as a sissy thing to do and a lot of them do paintings in their rooms for other men who aren’t as talented.’’

Wells-Henderson approached Spring Hill Corrections facility in 2014.

She started off with two inmates who volunteered for the programme, but by the time she had organised the exhibition in June of that year, she had 22.

‘‘These men have raw talent. Very little is required of me in the classroom other than some advice or suggestions.’’

The majority of art supplies are donated, though a lot of it is very basic, like leftover house paint. Wells-Henderson buys extra supplies that may be required out of her own pocket.

The inmates are working towards an exhibition in June, the third Wells-Henderson has organised.

‘‘It’s been very rewarding. I have to say there is some incredible work. I’m really thrilled to bits.’’

The paintings that haven’t previously sold at exhibition WellsHenderson tries to sell at the Hamilton East street market.

The men choose what subject they want to paint.

‘‘I know when I first started, people thought the art would be pretty dark. But it’s not. Their minds are free and that is what they prefer to paint.

‘‘I take a lot of National Geographic magazines and art books, magazines there for inspiration, so they can have a wide range of subjects to help them with ideas.

‘‘Generally, a lot of it is things they remember from their childhood or instances or a glimpse of something they’ve seen on TV.’’ The proceeds of the artwork go

the SPCA, though it’s

to earmarked solely to assist animals, rather than administration.

The classes run 12 weeks per term for two hours once a week, which the inmates make work around their general jobs or other commitments.

Classes are limited to 10 inmates to ensure WellsHenderson can give each enough attention. There’s now a waiting list to join.