The Art in Prison initiative, a collaboration between Project 39A, National Law University, Delhi and Sumansa Foundation, underscores the transformative power of creative expression within correctional facilities. Launched as a pilot program at Puzhal Central Jail, Chennai, this initiative emphasizes the importance of arts in rehabilitation, mental well-being, and community building among incarcerated individuals. By integrating Music, Theatre, and Visual Arts, the program aims to provide incarcerated individuals with tools for self-expression, skill development, and preparation for reintegration into society.
ORGANISATION BIO
Project 39A, National Law University, Delhi - A criminal justice programme based out of the National Law University in Delhi - is inspired by Article 39-A of the Indian Constitution, a provision that espouses the intertwined values of equal justice and equal opportunity by removing economic and social barriers. The centre builds research on issues of mental health, forensics science, litigation and mitigation practices, and sentencing that sit at the heart of the country’s criminal justice system. It shares a special focus on pro bono representation of death row prisoners. Art in Prisons at Project 39A emerged from a felt need to ensure that those incarcerated can exercise their right to create and practice art.
Sumanasa Foundation - Sumanasa Foundation was established in 2005 with the objective of engaging with the arts and the community. Sumanasa supports projects that help in reimagining art and culture, thus enabling communities, in fostering culturally vibrant spaces, engaging in serious conversations across social groups and creating platforms for artists and art forms from marginalized backgrounds. It provides different avenues for artists to engage in socio-cultural dialogue, and in building appreciation and interest in the arts.
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