Art Mural project at HMP Altcourse

Novus learners at HMP Altcourse were recently commissioned by Brian, the Chaplain to create large murals. The aim of the project was to enhance the entrance spaces and the stairway by adding colour and creativity, transforming the blank and dull areas into vibrant, welcoming environments.

The project gave learners the chance to showcase their skills learned in the art class and provide them with the opportunity to develop their skills working on a larger canvas.

Art Mural Project

Initially, the art learners met with Brian, the Chaplain to be briefed on his vision. The group and Brian discussed ideas, then Brian shared relevant visuals as a reference for the learners. Using these as a starting point, the learners worked together to decide on their approach and allocated tasks among themselves.

Environmental art brightens spaces, enhances mood, creativity, and engagement as well as creating a welcoming atmosphere so it was important for the learners to convey that in their murals.

The work has now been completed after 4 weeks of hard work and dedication from the art learners. The murals were well received by Brian who sent a positive email to the Altcourse Local Education Manager Joe regarding the murals:

'I would like to take this opportunity to thank you and your education team (art class) for the incredible artwork of religious paintings and symbols created by the prisoners. The pieces displayed on the stairs and landing of the chapel entrance have truly brightened up the space and made the chapel a more welcoming and inclusive environment.

We have received numerous positive comments about the improvements, and the artwork has sparked many interesting conversations. Your support and collaboration are greatly appreciated.'

The learners who participated also spoke positively about the experience:

“I took part in an enrichment project painting various religious scenes on the walls of the chapel. We did this to make people from all walks of life and religions feel welcome. I have found doing the project to be very rewarding and relaxing. I am now going to commence the L2 Art qualification and will continue art when I leave prison as I find it really helps my mental health.”

“I wanted to secure a place on the Art course to gain a qualification in the subject. Once I gained my place in class, I was offered the chance to take part in an enrichment project to brighten up the walls of the chapel. I've worked as part of a team and become friends with the people I've been working with. Together we've produced some good results and people's positive reactions to my efforts have been great. I have never felt as good as I do now, for the first time people appreciate my efforts. It's something I'll never forget. Having the time and space to complete this project has given me chance to evaluate and my attitude in life has become stable. I hope this continues when released.”

The project has been a huge success so much so, that the learners have now been set a new challenge to create murals for the entrance to the education building, giving them another chance to work to a live client brief.

Projects like these not only give learners the opportunity to showcase and develop their creative skills but also gives them the opportunity to work to a brief. A live client brief gives learners real-world experience, enhancing problem-solving communication, and adaptability. It also fosters professionalism, teamwork, and accountability while providing valuable portfolio work and industry insights.

Through the project learners have been able to develop creatively, socialise with peers and contribute positively to a creative project, where their talents and efforts are now being showcased on a daily basis through their murals.

To learn more about how we engage learners in creative enrichment opportunities and projects, take a look at the news section.