CAP recognises the significance of Koestler Arts as a major influence in how art is received by prison communities Nationwide. Koestler Arts is the UK’s established arts trust and runs a formidable award scheme for anyone incarcerated or under the supervision of Ministry of Justice. In CAP’S early days of development, when it was known as Positive Urban Design, it was quickly understood how such a scheme was impacting residents, staff and environments generally. After a 6 month urban arts project, I had the privilege of being invited back into the unit to see 4 of my 6 students receive awards from the Koestler Trust as well as many others who had been entered by the art department.

 

The award ceremony, put on by staff at the unit created an excited response from the residents, which was quite memorable. There was a notable impact on each participant, which translated into improved engagements generally in the unit but especially in art. All of the pieces were large murals installed into the sports hall.

 

 At this time, the centre had its highest amount of awards and also it’s first Platinum award which came from my ‘Positive Urban Design’ group. I strongly believe this helped my programs to progress further into the prison establishments where we continue now to promote all the Koestler Trust provides. It is a great encouragement for students who attend activities but also those who cannot attend for various reasons. The Koestler Trust are a valued arm of support that reaches far into the realms of the Ministry of Justice as an ambassador of the arts.

 

 To those who have found themselves in the unfortunate position of incarceration, Koestler Trust offers support and opportunities, not only through certificates and feedback from professional artists but also the opportunity to have work exhibited in various national exhibitions, including annually, London’s prestigious South Bank Centre at the Royal Festival Halls.

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