Arts Behind Bars: A Sociological and Historical Examination of the “Behind Walls, Beyond Bars” Exhibition
deskvalor
Mar 26
3 min read
By: Jan Mathieu Tagorio
Introduction Art has had a role as a means of expression, rehabilitation next to social reflection. "Behind Walls, Beyond Bars," displays the talents of Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDLs) in several Philippine correctional institutions (Bureau of Corrections, 2024). The Behind Walls, Beyond Bars was an exhibition that took place at the National Museum of Fine Arts in Manila starting from October 29, 2024 through January 5, 2025, which provides an exclusive glimpse into the lives and stories of incarcerated people (National Museum of the Philippines, 2024). Utilizing both historical and sociological critique on why the exhibit plays a role in encouraging rehabilitation, questioning social perspectives, and pulverization of the art world as a whole.
The Behind Walls, Beyond Bars exhibition features a diverse collection of paintings and pyrography (wood-burned works) created by PDLs (National Museum of the Philippines, 2024). Outstanding works like these provide insight into the personal experiences and the sentiments and dreams of the artists, evoking themes of hope, redemption, and, in tandem, perseverance. The exhibition stands as an integral part of the National Correctional Consciousness Week Art Exhibition, seeking awareness about the lives of incarcerated people and the transformative power of art in rehabilitation (Supreme Court of the Philippines, 2024).
One important aspect of the exhibition is that it renders PDLs relatable, showing them not only as offenders but as people who can be original and improve themselves (Bureau of Corrections, 2024). The artworks present a certain challenge toward the stigma associated with incarceration. They also encourage most viewers to reconsider their perceptions regarding justice and rehabilitation. The First Lady Louise Araneta-Marcos and other dignitaries were at the opening to show how important the exhibition is to promoting inclusivity and awareness.
Critical Analysis
Historically, the exhibition falls in lockstep with worldwide movements that acknowledge art as a consciousness-raising and rehabilitative tool (Bureau of Corrections, 2024). The creative displays have been a history of art programs in prisons; offering inmates a way to express themselves instead of serving as a social decay on the outside due to lack of psychological comfort (Go, 2020). Other similar exhibits like the art exhibit during the 22nd National Association of Dental Traders Inc. (NADTI) Trade Exhibits have shown that art can be a rehabilitative tool and also allow inmates to reconnect with the outside world (Philippine News Agency, 2022). The latest edition Behind Walls, Beyond Bars continues this practice, showcasing the Philippine correctional system's efforts to adopt restorative justice practices.
From a sociological perspective, the exhibition also highlights the importance of giving marginalized voices a platform and offering PDLs opportunities to share their stories with the greater community (Supreme Court of the Philippines, 2024). A move that promotes empathy, inspiring generosity amongst those with experience of incarceration, and those on the outside. The exhibition is an important initiative that both showcases the work of PDLs and challenges us to think deeply about issues of leniency, redemption, and the darker sides of humanity (Bureau of Corrections, 2024).
However, the exhibition also poses questions about the accessibility and reception of PDL art. The National Museum does have a prestigious space, but it is important to understand if people are ready to see art made by incarcerated people (National Museum of the Philippines, 2024). There are blind spots that make it difficult to appreciate such work, thus restricting the reach of the exhibit. The commercialization of PDL art also raises ethical issues regarding the distribution of profits and the possible exploitation of prison labor (Supreme
Court of the Philippines).
Conclusion
Behind Walls, Beyond Bars is a worthy effort to showcase the redemptive influence of art in the Philippine prison system (Bureau of Corrections, 2024). The exhibit breaks the stereotype around PDLs, encouraging empathy and understanding through creativity. The exhibition includes its challenges surrounding reception or public controversy and ethical implications, but it's also a powerful step toward addressing inclusive art practices and restorative justice (National Museum of the Philippines, 2024). As a result, this exhibition itself not only enriches the art world but contributes to a better society by creating a window for marginalized voices.
References
Bureau of Corrections. (2024). Behind walls, beyond bars: Art fair. Bucor.gov.ph.
Supreme Court of the Philippines. (2024). Chief Justice Gesmundo leads opening of PDL art exhibit on National Correctional Consciousness Week. Supreme Court of the Philippines.
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