Creative art programs building skills and supporting rehabilitation in Alice Springs
Published: 16 Apr 2026
NT Corrections recently partnered with Charles Darwin University to deliver Certificate II and IV courses in visual arts, with participants at the Alice Springs Correctional Centre (ASCC) learning painting, drawing, printmaking and sculpting.
Those completing their Cert IV have turned scrap metal into sculptures of birds, flowers, robots and plants as part of the Creative Project unit, expanding their skills in the specialist field of welded sculpting.
Cert II participants also produced metal artworks, with several prisoners learning how to weld for the first time as part of the Follow a Design Process unit. They were mentored by the more experienced Cert IV cohort, fostering a positive and collaborative learning environment.
Over 130 sculptures were recently showcased at an exhibition at the Araluen Arts Centre with approximately 100 artworks sold to residents and visitors, highlighting the importance and impact of these programs.
A number of the sculptures will also be permanently displayed in the gardens at the entrance of the Alice Springs Reintegration Facility.
Greenbush goes outback exhibition
The recent exhibition builds on the success of Greenbush Goes Outback, an exhibition which was unveiled to a crowd of 115 art enthusiasts at the Araluen Art Centre in November 2025.
The artists turned scrap metal into spectacular sculptures including a chicken, billy goat, horse and more.
Over half of the artwork was sold on opening night, with the sculptures remaining on display for the public until February this year.
ASCC, Principal Industries Officer Stephen Rosier said the initiative combined creativity, personal stories and art education, helping rehabilitate prisoners.
'It fosters self-reflection, discipline, and a sense of achievement. These exhibitions also represent giving back and creating a bridge between correctional facilities and the wider community—a bridge built on creativity, understanding, and hope.'
He added that the sculptures, built from metal, discarded machinery and repurposed tools mirror the artists’ own journeys by reshaping something worn or cast aside into something purposeful and striking.
CDU’s Ryan Buckley said education is one of the most effective ways to reduce recidivism.
'When people are given the chance to learn new skills, build confidence, and find a sense of purpose, their futures can look very different.'
Both exhibitions have reflected the personal growth, teamwork and work-ready skills developed by participants.
A big congratulations to all participants and staff involved in the initiatives, and a massive thank you to CDU for delivering seven successful exhibitions to date for ASCC.
