ARTISTS ON THE INSIDE

6 AUGUST - 11 September 2026

Artists on the Inside presents artworks created by men and women in custody across South Australia’s prisons. For many of these artists, making art serves as a communication tool, a coping mechanism and an emotional outlet. Completing a final piece can inspire pride and a strengthened sense of identity, helping artists stay connected with family, friends, and the wider community - both inside and beyond the prison walls.

The Artists on the Inside program seeks to provide insights into life within correctional facilities. By sharing these works, it challenges common assumptions about people in prison and highlights their creativity, skills, and capacity for meaningful social inclusion.

Presented as part of the SALA festival, the exhibition celebrates visual art, culture, and storytelling. The participating artists - each with their own backgrounds, experiences, and connections to the criminal justice system - share their perspectives, histories, and creativity through their work.

Visitors are invited to take part in this dialogue by voting for their favourite artwork in the People’s Choice Award and leaving a message that will be passed on to the artist. Some of the artwork will be for sale*.

Image: Artwork, The Struggles for Life, 2025 Artists On The Inside Exhibition, People's Choice Award Winner

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.