The History of Art in Prisons

An event exploring the history of art in prisons and contemporary exhibitions on prisoner art.

In the Victorian era, there was a keen interest in art in secure settings. Art was supposed to evoke a domestic atmosphere, as well as aiming to improve minds and morals. But it could also be a way for prisoners to have a voice – through graffiti, or handcrafted objects.

This event brings together speakers on the history of art in prisons, alongside contemporary exhibitions on prisoner art. Speakers include Laura McAtackney on the history of graffiti and other art in Irish prisons and Dominique Moran, who curated the exhibition ‘Incarcerated: Contemporary Arts from the Victorian Prison’.