http://www.hometeam.sg/article.aspx?news_sid=20120815BQ5bVksWjyMq
Created by current inmates, the art pieces on display showcase the convicts’ talent and the skills they have learnt in prison.
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| An inmate completing a watercolour painting in Changi Prison. PHOTO: Haikal Jamari |
On 17 July 2012, the Singapore Prison Service held a mini-art exhibition within Changi Prison as a prelude to this year’s Yellow Ribbon Art Exhibition in September.
Supporters of the Yellow Ribbon Project were given a sneak preview of some of the captivating artwork created by current inmates.
Launched in 2004, the Yellow Ribbon Project is an initiative aimed at helping ex-offenders find a new lease of life and encouraging the community to accept them and their families.
These individuals bid on artwork done by prison inmates and the proceeds go to the Yellow Ribbon Fund which is used to help ex-offenders and their families in the form of educational bursaries and other financial means.
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| An inmate creating an artwork made of clay within Changi Prison. PHOTO: Haikal Jamari |
For Jerry, 45, an inmate who has been in prison seven times previously for drug use, his art is a means to “let go of his past, ego and pride” and of “wanting to be somebody.”
Since it is sometimes difficult to communicate what one feels through words, art thus becomes a medium through which inmates like Jerry can convey their innermost private feelings and thoughts.
Jerry’s artwork is a watercolour painting of red berries representing society, forming a heart shape to surround a single blueberry which represents him.
“I long to be accepted by society again, but I know that it takes a big heart to accept me,” said Jerry.
The dominance of the colour red in the painting signifies warmth, compassion, energy and life and the underwater setting symbolizes the volume of love that can make a difference in someone’s life.
The reflections of the berries in the water represent Jerry’s willingness to reflect on his past and to cherish what he has at present.
Jerry continues to count every berry and every blessing every day.
He emphasised throughout the interview that he would like to show his gratitude to Miss Jasmine Ong, his watercolour painting teacher.
“Initially, I volunteered for the classes to pass the time and I wasn’t really serious about learning,” shared Jerry.
“I once skipped Miss Ong’s class. Later, her colleague told me that she is a volunteer and does not get paid for her time. I felt very guilty after that and I began to take my classes seriously,” said Jerry.
According to Jerry, painting taught him to accept himself as imperfect.
“When I paint repetitions, I try to paint details. But I cannot get it detailed perfectly, and I see myself as a piece of art—imperfect,” reflected Jerry.
Jerry’s artwork has won him the acceptance of the people who matter the most to him—his family.
“My family has not visited me for four years. I have had no news from them despite me writing to them,” said Jerry.
Inmates participating in the Art Exhibition are given the opportunity to have a face-to-face visit with family members.
For the first time in four years, Jerry’s family will be present.
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| Jerry (left) explains the meaning behind his artwork to Home Team News Reporter Daniel Govindan. PHOTO: Haikal Jamari |
For another inmate, Buck, 41, who was previously an exterior and interior designer before his incarceration due to drugs, art is a way to reach out to his son.
Buck's artwork involves using clay to create sculptures.
His artwork consists of two sculptures: one representing himself while the other represents his son.
Like Jerry, Buck's artwork is a means of communication; it tells a very private story of his life and worldview.
His clay sculpture is warped and curved, mirroring how his own life was not straight.
Art taught Buck about hope.
“If you really repent of your mistakes and stick to the correct principles, no matter how crooked your path was, you can create something beautiful, like this sculpture,” said Buck.
Interestingly, Buck’s bigger clay sculpture which represents himself had, by sheer coincidence, more flaws and was not as shiny and lacked lustre.
The smaller sculpture which represents his son was much cleaner and had a nice sheen to it.
Although coincidental, the artwork aptly describes his life situation and the hope for a brighter future for his 14-year-old son.
Buck explained that his experience of sculpting has been a meaningful experience.
“It has taught me to be more patient. If you want to achieve something (like quitting drugs), there are no shortcuts in life. I finally understood this while learning sculpting; my previous three incarcerations did not teach me this,” said Buck.
Besides creating artwork to be auctioned for the Yellow Ribbon Project, Buck managed to attain a certification in fine arts and pottery from Lasalle School of the Arts.
The course was facilitated by the Singapore Prison Service and SCORE, co-organisers of Yellow Ribbon Project activites.
After completing an advanced pottery course, Buck is now a trainer teaching other inmates pottery.
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| Buck showcasing his clay artwork and the inspiration he derived from it. PHOTO: Haikal Jamari |
The Art Exhibition highlights the struggles with labelling and stigmatization that ex-offenders face from society, as well as their longing for acceptance.
The theme for this year’s exhibition is “Will” which reflects the motivation to change and overcome the challenges of reintegration.
It speaks of choice, the determination, purpose, self-control, aspirations and legacy of ex-offenders.
It also aims to help the public understand how the will to overcome the challenges of reintegration begins with the ex-offender himself, his family, his neighbourhood and the community.
All artwork produced by inmates will be exhibited at the Singapore Art Museum (SAM) located at 71 Bras Basah Road, Singapore, from the 14 till 30 September 2012.
Do visit the exhibition and view the artwork in support of the Yellow Ribbon Project.
Click here to find out more information on the Prisons Art Exhibition at Singapore Art Museum (SAM).
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