How do people in prison exactly benefit from participating in artistic projects?
Art (like music) is a useful tool for ensuring mental stability and making sure people have something to do. Having something to focus on is the only way you can rehabilitate, or if not to rehabilitate, prevent inmates from going haywire. Not only does the use of art help people psychologically but socially i.e. to communicate effectively and express themselves. Art therapy in particular uses art to help those with difficulty expressing themselves verbally, who have experienced trauma, or who have lost touch with their feelings. Art therapists work with children, those with learning difficulties, the elderly, those with mental health problems and offenders – usually one-to-one but also in groups. It is useful for prisoners because the interaction between themselves and the therapist can help the prisoner to take responsibility for their actions, share with others and do things for themselves though this takes time.
