We provide art, cultural and arts industry support to Indigenous offenders and ex-offenders in Victoria through our Indigenous Arts in Prisons and Community program, since 2011.

The program supports the development of self-esteem, confidence and resilience, through cultural strengthening and artistic expression. The Torch assists artists to reconnect with culture, earn income from art sales (with 100% of the artwork price going directly to the artist), foster new networks and to pursue educational and creative industry avenues upon their release.

By embracing program participants as artists rather than offenders, The Torch provides an avenue to change.

Confined 13

Welcome to the Confined 13 virtual exhibition featuring artworks by Indigenous artists currently in or recently released from prisons in Victoria, Australia.  Presenting 400 artworks from 350 artists, Confined 13 creates a strong visual metaphor for the over-representation of Indigenous Australians in the criminal justice system. It is the biggest exhibition ever presented by The Torch.

View Confined 13 through our artwork mosaic and 3D Gallery and explore video stories featuring The Torch artists online.

Artworks can be purchased online with 100% of the artwork price going directly to the artist.

Artwork is also on display at Glen Eira City Council Gallery in Caulfield until 5 June and will be available for collection after this date. (Gallery Hours: Mon-Fri, 10am-5pm; Sat-Sun, 1pm-5pm).

Artist’s Ash Thomas and Chris Austin after completing a Mural for Yarra Valley Water, 2020