Looking At Life Manchester public workshop: Exploring creativity in prison

Looking at Life displays artwork by care experienced people in HMP/YOI Deerbolt and explores the impact creativity can have on people in prison – from strengthened relationships to protection against reoffending.

Join us at this open workshop alongside author and prison educator Andy West (Author of The Life Inside - recently adapted for a BBC Series, Waiting for the Out) and philosopher Dr Grace Lockrobin (Co-Director of Thoughtful), for an interactive session exploring the artwork on display at Looking At Life: Art by care experienced young men in prison.

In this workshop you'll hear more about Creative Aid, a five year creative programme at Deerbolt Prison delivered in partnership by North East England charities, Blue Cabin and Nepacs.

You'll also experience a guided walk-through around the gallery space, hearing more about the individual artworks and how they were made.

Grace and Andy will then guide us through some of the philosophical questions and activities used during their visits to Deerbolt. Together we will delve into themes emerging from the artwork, and reflect on what it means to create art as a care experienced person in prison.

We’ll also examine some of the young men’s perspectives about their work, and gather your responses, which will be shared with the young men.

Whether you’re interested in art and philosophy, have a stake in care, prisons, or education, or are just curious, everyone is welcome to join this in-person session.

What to expect

• A welcome from host, Dawn Williams from Blue Cabin.

• Short introductions to Blue Cabin, Nepacs, and the Creative Aid project

• The chance to look at some of the artwork created by the young men

• Questions and prompts from Andy and Grace to consider and respond to

• Light refreshments

Tickets are free - advanced booking is required.

Access at The Horsfall

Looking At Life will take place in the Ground Floor of The Horsfall. There is step-free access at the main entrance. There is a designated accessible toilet available in the venue. Please contact hello@wearebluecabin.com if you have any specific access requirements you'd like to discuss.