Exhibition features over 2,000 handicrafts by inmates

Bread, clothing, carpentry products and other handicrafts, all made by inmates of Macau’s prisons, have been on display at the Macau Forum over the weekend.
Co-organized by the Correctional Services Bureau (DSC) and by the Civic and Municipal Affairs Bureau (IACM), the Inmates’ Handicraft Exhibition 2016 featured more than 300 varieties of handicrafts, with over 2,000 works across all categories.
According to the DSC, proceeds from the exhibition will go toward a correctional fund for prisoners’ training and education.
Image and video slideshows were also presented, describing the purposes and activities of the DSC, the Education and Youth Affairs Bureau (DSEJ) and the Social Welfare Bureau (IAS) in assisting the inmates with social reintegration.
Another exhibition featuring drawings by local middle school students was held at the same time. The students visited Macau prisons during January and April. Inspired by their experiences, the artworks depict Easter eggs, symbolizing the beginning of a new life for prisoners.
The DSC has been organizing this exhibition for over a decade, either once or twice every year. All handicrafts and food are made by inmates who participated in the DSC’s handicrafts program.
Until May 31, there were 1,316 inmates in the Coloane Prison, comprising 1,108 males and 208 females. A total of 293 inmates received professional training in prison. The programs aim to impart life skills such as cooking, mending clothing, construction and cleaning.   Staff reporter