Lewes Prison Art at Artwave

This September, paintings created by men in Lewes Prison were on display at Lewes Quaker Meeting House as part of the town’s “Artwave” exhibitions. Over two weekends more than 600 visitors came to view the work. Many of the paintings were sold, raising funds for Sussex Pathways and helping to shine a light on the talent and creativity within the prison community.

The exhibition was supported by staff from the prison art department and prison volunteers, who were on hand to speak with visitors. Feedback was overwhelmingly positive: people were struck not only by the quality of the artwork but also by the value of creative outlets for those in prison.

Chris Lawson, a member of Lewes Quakers, explained how Friends were glad to respond to the Prison Chaplain’s suggestion that the Meeting House could host the exhibition. They provided stewarding and practical support, ensuring the event ran smoothly. The Head of Learning and Skills at the prison expressed gratitude, saying, “The prisoners are delighted that their work has been favourably received by the visitors and especially the positive feedback.”

On one of the weekends, Neal from our team was welcomed by the Lewes Quakers to join their Sunday morning Meeting for Worship. The hour of silence was, he admitted, something of a challenge. Neal said:

“They had a theme which was Love — I didn’t know this at the time, but my thoughts during the silence turned to our work at Sussex Pathways, and to the wider challenges faced by those we support. When I was introduced afterwards, I spoke about how many of the people we work with cannot bear ten seconds alone in their heads, let alone an hour. I shared how it is the unconditional love of our staff and volunteers that enables us to look beyond actions and see the person, so we can truly support them in resettling into the community. I gave some examples of clients who have turned their lives around, and I closed by reading William Stafford’s poem A Ritual to Read Each Other.”

After worship, Neal joined the congregation for refreshments and conversation.

Neal with Friends from Lewes Quakers at the exhibition.