Art show gives glimpse ‘Behind the wire’

This year the Northern Territory Corrections Art show was back after a few years hiatus and included works from prisoners from across the Top End and Central Australia, thanks to the Charles Darwin University (CDU) Prisoner Education and Training in NT Department of Corrections.  

The ’Behind the Wire’ showcase had 110 paintings and 66 sculptures, that depicted local landscapes, animals and ancient Dreamtime narratives, which were on display at the Fannie Bay Goal Museum.

The art show was curated by two CDU Visual Arts lecturers, Sue McDonnell and Justin Crooks. Many of the pieces had been completed by CDU students who are in prison and currently enrolled in a Certificate in Visual Arts.  

CDU TAFE Visual Arts Lecturer Corrections Sue McDonnell said the artworks represent a wide range of visual arts, craft and design.

“The prisoners have worked hard to hone their skills and use the classroom as a way to connect with their skills as well as culture and Country,” Ms McDonnell said.  

“The paintings from the Top End mob are mostly traditional Top End paintings characterised by intricate cross hatching using natural earth pigments; some tell the stories of ancient Dreamtime narratives depicting regional wildlife and spirits.

“Other artists focused on their memories and have painted realistic local landscapes and animals.”  

The showcase also featured Sculptures from the well-known Central Australian Greenbush Art group, who are known for their creative assemblages.  

The art show ran congruently during the Darwin Art festival.