Prisoners' hobby room art benefits crime victims

This piece was part of an auction of prisoners' art which raised more than $7000 for Victim Support. Photo / Paul Estcourt

Artistic expression has a place in Auckland Prison at Paremoremo.

In the hobby room, Chris (not his real name), and three other prisoners work on carving long poles for a courthouse entrance. They tell the story of the struggle of good over bad. Behind the work bench, a partly finished mural features a whale.

Leaning against it, is a 3D sculpture panel under protective dust covers. They are removed gently, respectfully, by a powerful tattooed arm. Respect is the golden rule of the hobby room.

This, says Chris, is why inmates nominated Victim Support as the charity to benefit from the sale of their carvings and paintings.

Paremoremo inmates and inmates at Ngawha Prison, Northland, contributed to the InsideOut exhibition at the Mairangi Bay Arts Centre. Half of the works sold and inmates presented a cheque for $7495 to the charity.

"It's an overwhelming joy to have the opportunity to do these things, especially in prison," said Chris. "Thank the people who allow us to give back to the public - if only it is in our art.

"Hopefully, it will encourage people and make them aware there are good things inside a place like this."

One item from the show is a 2m-long carved waka taua, a war canoe. It will be on show in North Shore libraries. Mayor Andrew Williams said the city paid $3000 for it from the arts discretionary fund.

Auckland Prison programmes manager Mark Lynds said the exhibition was a first for the hobby room crew. The carving school began two years ago and had produced work for North Shore public buildings.

Kauri for carving was recovered from a swamp during building of Ngawha Prison and carted south in prison stores trucks.

Debbie Craddock, of Victim Support, said the organisation was grateful for the cheque.

"I find it amazing that they have chosen Victim Support. That's very special."