Prodigal Arts present an exhibition at Alchemy 198 featuring high quality artwork for sale, produced by prisoners and ex-offenders from HMP Leyhill Prison

Using different media and styles the artists were challenged to depict transformation and what change might look like when they are released, life as they knew it restored, hope and the future returned and a better or changed ‘person’ gets the opportunity to grow and have a new life.

Prodigal Arts:- Transformation Through Art

Mentoring offenders and ex-offenders to find not only a new creativity, but a new life

Prodigal Arts is a charity that provides opportunities for talented prisoners and ex-offenders to produce and sell artwork created in their own voluntary time as part of their ongoing rehabilitation.  Prodigal Arts aim to bring transformation through art, making a positive contribution to society.

Our project is based in Bristol and works in the region. Artwork is produced for sale directly to the public and through commissions. The aim of Prodigal Arts is to help people in prison and post-release ‘unlock’ their creative potential, ‘setting free’ a positive sense of individual achievement and self-worth which aims to contribute to reducing the chances of re-offending.

All artwork on display is available to purchase, 5% go to Victim Support after cost of sales, then 60% goes back into Prodigal Arts to continue the work and 40% from each sale goes to the artist available on release, with released artists the percentage is reversed 60% the artist and 40% to Prodigal Arts.

Quotes from two of the artists:-

“Knowing that someone wants to buy my artwork has had a profound affect on my self esteem and has given me a new purpose when I’m released, particularly as I will be retired and in ill health. It has also given me a new found confidence to experiment with new ideas and mediums.” Artist Davey

“Attending the Prodigal Arts sessions has had a positive effect on my self-esteem, particularly when receiving feedback from people on my artwork which is usually positive and makes me feel like  I can actually do something well and worthwhile.” Artist John