Gonzalo Miralles
Outta Voice
Summary
In the UK and in Chile, the two countries this practice-based research project engages with, individuals who have been incarcerated face a difficult situation upon release as they often lack the necessary resources to integrate into society. How might a socially- engaged, contemporary art practice support these people, helping them to counter their marginalisation through the production of their own creative work? This project utilises the ‘RNR’ (Risk, Needs, Responsivity) model as proposed by ‘Andrews and Bonta’ (1990) to work with a London-based group of former prisoners identified and engaged with through the course of the research on the development of OUTTA VOICE. This is an event which combines the music the group has produced together and individually with an installation of sculpture by the artist, which engages with the experience of marginalisation and of social invisibility. What were the challenges of working with this group, and what are the opportunities for future practice? Above all, how does such an event raise public awareness on the matter? Research methods include visits to prisons and discussions with former prisoners in London, comparative data analysis on prisoners in the UK and Chile, and reflections on how a painting and sculpture, among other practices, might contribute similarly to meaningful dialogue with and positive change for individuals facing legal challenges.
