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A Jersey-based crime author has shared how talks with people in high-security prisons have helped inspire his work.
Every Friday, Express is presenting a selection of online and offline exhibitions, performances and other historic and creative content to help islanders get their weekly dose of culture throughout the pandemic.
This week’s selection revolves around the theme of stories…
Ahead of the release of his next novel, ‘I follow you’, which is set in Jersey, locally based crime author Peter James has revealed his inspirations and the work that goes into each of his books.
In a podcast shared by ArtHouse Jersey, the best-selling writer discusses his passion for criminology, how his access to law enforcers influences his work, and the kinds of people he meets while hosting talks in high security prisons.
And perhaps there could be some islanders following in Mr James’ footsteps…
Throughout lockdown, the Arts Centre’s ‘Flash! Fiction!’ initiative has seen a word or phrase released each week, aiming to inspire people young and old to pen their own short stories.
This week’s was ‘reflection’, prompting a chilling micro-read from 12-year-old Olivia, which begins, “As I watched the last bone dissolve into the forest green acid, my reflection stared back at me…”
You can read all the stories released so far by clicking HERE.
Meanwhile, Kairos Arts have been sharing more uplifting stories on Facebook.
The collective is a group of professional creatives and therapists, who believe in using the power of art as a restorative force.
Therapeutic consultant Jane Pointon explained: "During a workshop a very angry young woman was working with clay. She created a beautiful meaningful piece of art and I felt for that moment the world for her became a calmer peaceful place where she could begin to think about a different future for herself.”
Practitioner Mandy Lawson, meanwhile, spoke of the impact of a seaside-themed art workshop for people with dementia.
"...There were smiles of delight as sand was once again trickling through fingers, familiar childhood objects, postcards and shells triggering stories. Years tumbled away as ‘Yellow Submarine’ was sung with gusto," she recalled, adding that it afforded her the "privilege" of being "transported back in time" into one participant's life, as they enacted a memory of their father serving in the RAF.
Creative Director Cathy Sara shared in a video how a woman transitioning out of the sex-trade in Bolivia found healing through an arts session.
“Beauty instead of ashes.”
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