Indigenous Artists

Collection of indigenous art, full colour hardcover over 100 pieces of art, painting and sculpture.

The Torch Collection showcases extraordinary artworks by Indigenous men and women who have come in contact with the criminal justice system in Victoria. The artworks express resilience, strength, the importance of cultural connection and the hope of a better future. This collection of artworks confirms the transformative effects and healing power of art and culture for Indigenous offenders and ex-offenders. The focus of The Torch is the role of culture and cultural identity in the rehabilitative process of Indigenous offenders.

With its focus on cultural strengthening and building sustainable post release pathways, The Torch hopes to address the disproportionately high rates of Indigenous recidivism by increasing the participation of prisoners and former prisoners with the arts industry. The Torch plays a significant role in reconnecting Indigenous prisoners with their culture through art. The program recognises Indigenous people's wisdom and knowledge and encourages self-determination and autonomy. The Torch is helping to realise the changes necessary to break the cycle of reoffending.

About the Author

Kent Morris is a Barkindji man, a graduate of the Victorian College of the Arts and an alumnus of the Wesfarmers Indigenous Arts Leadership Program. He has over 20 years of experience as a practising artist and curator and has specialist knowledge of, and connections within, the Indigenous Australian arts and culture industry.

Kent has a strong interest in the educational and healing potential of the arts and in 2011 joined The Torch to design, develop and deliver the Indigenous Arts in Prisons and Community program.