ARTISTS ON THE INSIDE

AUGUST 2025

Artworks displayed as part of Artists on the Inside (and out!) were created by men and women in custody across South Australia’s prisons, as well as community members from South Australia with lived experience in the criminal justice system.

Art can serve as a communication tool, a coping mechanism, and an emotional outlet for those in custody. Final works created in prison can draw out a sense of pride; the work enables the artist to connect with friends, family and the community within and beyond the prison walls, and to share something that is their own.

Historically the Artists on the Inside program has sought to provide insights into life within correctional facilities. It has served to challenge public preconceived ideas about people in prison, as well as celebrating creative talents and skills through the positive social inclusion of people who are ‘inside’.

This year places a greater emphasis on creativity, culture, and the celebration of visual arts highlighting the diversity of living artists that make up the SALA Festival. Like other artists in the festival, men and women from all walks of life who have become involved in the criminal justice system, are sharing their thoughts, stories, culture, and creativity!

Visitors are invited to engage in a dialogue with people in prison by voting for their favourite artwork as part of the People’s Choice award and leaving a comment that can be shared with the artist. Some of the artwork will be for sale*.

Image: Artwork from the 2024 Artists On The Inside Exhibition
For those works for sale, the proceeds will contribute to the artist’s community resettlement and a portion will also be given to the SA Victims of Crime fund and to prisoner arts amenities and/or to the community organisations involved. There are also contributing artists who are choosing to donate their work to local organisations.