"The art class provides the context for a lot more to happen beyond the art making. Art offers the men a chance to affirm their individual identities," says Auckland Prison volunteer Gwen Taylor.
“Creative writing creates a platform for the men to understand and communicate their thoughts,” says Jamie Lee, education tutor at Otago Corrections Facility.
“Theatre is for everyone. I hope Up Down Girl inspires venues and producers to make a conscious effort to include people of all abilities, on stage and off,” says theatre practitioner Nathan Mudge.