Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander detainees at the Alexander Maconochie Centre (AMC) will be displaying their artwork at the foyer of No 2 Constitution Avenue (2CA) from 4 December 2019 to 7 January 2020.
Richard Glenn, Director-General Justice and Community Safety Directorate opened this event on behalf of Minister Rattenbury.
“We are happy to see these artworks displayed in the city as they celebrate the history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples,” Richard Glenn, Director-General Justice and Community Safety Directorate said.
“This exhibition is a collaboration between ACT Corrective Services (ACTCS) and commercial property manager, Knight Frank Australia.
“The exhibition will feature more than 24 paintings and will be open to the public from 9am to 5pm, Monday through Friday.
“I thank Knight Frank and the building owners of 2CA, ISPT Property Group for partnering with us and investing in our vision for the artists behind these fantastic works on display.
“I hope the public can enjoy the exciting works on display and marvel at the augmented reality enhancement available on a number of these works that I understand is an Australian first initiative.
“Each of the artist has put a lot of hard work into creating these beautiful paintings.
“By showcasing these paintings and allowing the artists to benefit from their ideas, we are helping to transform the lives of these artists.
“Art is also a great way for these detainees to do something meaningful and connect to culture. It also plays a role in their rehabilitation process.
“These artworks will be available for sale, with the price of each piece determined by the artist.
“Detainees are actively encouraged to either save the proceeds from their sales or provide the funds to their families.
“Each painting displayed will be accompanied with some information on the story behind the painting from the artist along with a short statement on how art is playing a role in their rehabilitation and contributing to their eventual return to the community,” he said.
Since the commencement of the AMC in 2009, detainees have been encouraged to engage in art classes through the AMC’s education and training provider for both educational and therapeutic purposes.
Many Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander detainees have actively engaged in cultural art production and since 2013 have had the opportunity to exhibit their works and offer them for sale.
