This project explores the power of cultural participation as a means to support (formerly) incarcerated individuals in leading meaningful lives. At the heart of the research is a co-creative writing group, in which participants collectively explore themes, write stories, and recite their work. We want to identify the factors that contribute to developing one’s voice, creative confidence and living a fulfilling life. This is done within a practice-based research framework that focuses on social cohesion, quality of life, and restorative approaches.
This project is is generously supported by Regieorgaan SIA and Fonds voor Cultuurparticipatie as part of the programme Co-creation and Cultural Participation
Creative writing in and beyond detention
The societal context in which this project takes place is complex and often harsh. During detention, individuals frequently lose contact with their social networks and become disconnected from their civic environment. As a result, reintegration into society proves to be a challenging process, further complicated by persistent stigmas. At the same time, research shows that strengthening social relationships is essential for building a dignified and stable life.
In this project, we focus on the role of active cultural participation for successful processes of reintegration. Specifically, we’re going to explore how creative writing can offer (former) inmates a practical space for reflection, growth, and empowerment.
Collaboration
The project is carried out through a unique collaboration between two research groups within Avans: the Cultural & Creative Industries (CCI) research group within the Centre of Applied Research for Art, Design & Technology (CARADT), and the Transmural Restorative Practices (THW) research group within the Centre of Expertise Safety & Resilience (CoE V&V). This collaboration brings together artistic and design-based research methods with restorative perspectives, thereby generating new insights into societal issues.
The research consortium also includes three valuable practice partners:
Stichting Blocknotes is an organization that uses creative writing to empower and develop the talents of people in prison. Through writing groups in multiple Dutch prisons, participants work alongside established writers, helping to break down barriers between “inside” and “outside”.
Penitentiary Dordrecht is a prison located in Dordrecht and a longstanding research partner of the research group THW.
Exodus Nederland is an organisation that supports (former) detainees to reintegrate and build a better future for themselves.
