Art Inside

In this episode of Art Inside, Neil Wallace talks with Jess Maclean, a lecturer in Māori and Indigenous Studies at the University of Canterbury, about the transformative impact of the Awe Māreikura programme at Christchurch Women's Prison. Jess discusses how culturally grounded arts education helps women reconnect with their identity, learn new skills, and build self-esteem. She also touches on the importance of whakapapa, pūrākau, and tikanga in this setting. The conversation highlights how the arts can play a key role in healing and personal growth, even within the challenging environment of the prison system. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Neil Wallace interviews Mark Lang, a former prisoner who transformed his life through art. Mark shares his journey from Northland and Hawkes Bay prisons, including his time in Te Tirohanga, the Māori focus unit, where he reconnected with his whakapapa and discovered whakairo (carving). Now, Mark owns Tika Pono Toi Gallery and Studio in Dargaville, where he creates and teaches carving, promoting creative well-being in the community. Mark discusses the impact of arts in corrections and his vision for the future. Join us for an inspiring story of resilience and creativity. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Join host Neil Wallace as he engages in a rich conversation with Hone Fletcher, Principal Advisor of Ropu Toi Ora at Ara Poutama Aotearoa. Hone's journey from diverse fields like education, counseling, and music into the Ara Poutama Aotearoa Department of Corrections offers a unique lens on the transformative power of art in prisons. In this conversation, Hone and Neil explore the origins and impact of the Hōkai Rangi Strategy, deeply rooted in Te Ao Māori. Hone also shares insights into its six pou, emphasising humanising and healing, fostering participation, and embracing Māori traditions.Through poignant stories, Hone illustrates how creative practices within correctional spaces, like the Māori Pathways Programme and Focus Units, offer avenues for healing and self-discovery. These initiatives not only impart skills but also nurture hope, leading to remarkable transformations and successful reintegration.Reflecting on his journey, Hone underscores the collaborative nature of this work. Tune in for a compelling discussion on how creative practices are reshaping corrections and empowering individuals on their path to redemption and renewal. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In the debut episode of Art Inside, we talk to Beth Hill, an arts tutor at the Northland Region Corrections Facility, sometimes referred to as Ngāwhā.Beth shares her remarkable journey, from rediscovering her passion for the arts to ultimately finding her calling in teaching art within the prison. As she reflects on her experiences, Beth offers valuable insights into the challenges and rewards of working in the corrections space. She highlights the importance of patience, communication, flexibility, and empathy in navigating the complexities of working within prisons. Moreover, Beth underscores the role of arts in fostering curiosity, safe expression, and self-discovery among the tāne she works with.Learn how the arts can provide a therapeutic outlet for individuals to explore their creativity, rebuild connections, and embark on a journey of personal transformation. Brought to you by Arts Access Aotearoa.Host: Neil Wallace - Kaiārahi a Toi, Ara Poutama mo Putanga Toi Ki Aotearoa. The Arts in Corrections Advisor for Arts Access Aotearoa.Guest: Beth Hill - Creative Wellbeing Practitioner for Redemption Arts & Education Services.Writers: Iona McNaughton, Sophie Macdonald and Neil Wallace.Producer: Sophie Macdonald.Title Track: Halftime Groove by Andrew DixonEpisode Length: 0:27:32If you have any questions relating to this series or episode, please get in contact with us at [email protected]. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.