Over 100 guests attended the event that showcased the skills acquired by inmates at the Tagimoucia Gallery at the Suva Corrections Centre. 

Launched by the Prime Minister Commodore Voreqe Bainimarama, those who attended included the Attorney General Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum, Information Permanent Secretary Sharon Smith-Johns, senior Government officials, members of the diplomatic corp and heads of corporate entities. 

Items on display included paintings, mosaic tilings and other handiwork like bags and postcards. 

Commissioner of Corrections Lt. Col Ifereimi Vasu said the revenue earned from the work of artists who are inmates, have surpassed $20,000 – of which 60 per cent goes directly to them. 

“You will be interested to know that work from this gallery have been displayed in art exhibitions in Fiji and in the region. 

“Some of our artists have also received several awards locally,” Lt Col Vasu said. 

He added that major international hotel chains have begun to take notice and have shown interest. 

In his keynote address, the Prime Minister Commodore Bainimarama said it was an opportunity for him personally to witness first-hand the work of the artists, to talk to them about their work and appreciate the role of art in their rehabilitation. 

“The artistic potential among inmates the world over has always been recognized. Some have imbued natural talents while others have acquired the skills through association. 

“It was out of this recognition that the initiatives to harness these talents gave rise to an art gallery concept under the initiatives of the Yellow Ribbon project,” Commodore Bainimarama said. 

The exhibition is expected to run for a week from September 12-16. 


www.corrections.org.fj