Your Story Mural 2021

This mural was designed, developed and delivered in collaboration with Ghanaian artist Edward Ofosu, Mexican artist Raul G. Loya and residents at HMP Hollesley Bay prison. This project was inspired by the award-winning Power of Stories exhibition which featured costumes from the Marvel Studios Black Panther movie which was held at Christchurch Mansion and went on to tour East Anglia. It was developed as a Covid-safe art activity for residents of the prison. Workshops were led online by the artists from Ghana and Mexico and educational sessions about objects in the exhibition were delivered by Eleanor Root from Colchester + Ipswich Museum Service. The workshops were based on creative workbooks designed by Edward Ofosu and the art materials generously donated by the Ipswich Museum. The opportunity for prison residents in Suffolk to work with international artists and deliver public artwork in Ipswich for local people to enjoy, is one sure way to put Ipswich on the map as a progressive and dynamic town.

“Arts and creativity in criminal justice settings can support improved well-being, awaken an interest in
learning and can help people build new positive identities. Engaging in the arts can also lead to new skills
and employment opportunities, as well as equipping participants with a desire to actively engage in their
community and culture.” - National Criminal Justice Arts Alliance

"What binds us together is far greater than what separates us." Edward Ofosu

“Working on this project has made me reinforce my belief in art as a powerful tool for human transformation. Through participation in the workshops, the residents responded to the ideas encouraging a reflection on narratives and the different ways that a message can be delivered, and how this is always influenced by the point of view of the storyteller and their personal beliefs. Together we felt the power of drawing as a means of communication and freedom.” Raul G. Loya

Art Eat Events is grateful to Ipswich and Suffolk Council for Racial Equality for introducing them
to HMP Hollesley Bay Equalities Team and inspiring a connection that led to this
project, and to Ipswich + Colchester Museum Service who have supported the project as well as to Aspire Black Suffolk who have been supportive associates to the project.

This project has been made possible thanks to funding support from The National Lottery
Community Fund and The Arts Council of England.