AN exhibition featuring the art work of convicted prisoners is to go on display in June.

Titled ‘The Journey into Light’, this display features more than 40 pieces of work from artists held in Cheshire’s prisons.

This unique display hopes to place a new light on some of the perceptions we hold on those whose freedom we are forced to take away.

Reverend Douglas Black, from All Saints Church in Thelwall where the exhibition will be held, said: “The exhibition is a wonderful opportunity to see prisoners in a new light.”

He added “Prisoners are often viewed as ‘the other’ yet they live in our midst, are a part of our community and contribute to our societies.

“The Journey into Light exhibition allows us the opportunity to better understand the lived experiences of prisoners in Cheshire.”

The inspiration for this exhibition came from the work of David Ashbrook whose artistic talents flourished in prison while serving a life sentence.

Upon release, David’s message became focused on a renewal of hope before his life was tragically lost in a car accident in 2008. The exhibition is dedicated to his memory.

Pieces include large acrylic paintings, abstracts and self-portraits.

The art originates from prisoners currently serving in HMP Styal and HMP Thorn Cross in Appleton Thorn.

These pieces will travel across 33 parishes in the Chester area and is expected to attracted thousands of people.

Debbie Dalby, director of social responsibility at the Diocese of Chester, added: “We want people to view the exhibition and leave with a greater sense of empathy and awareness of prisoner experience”.

This artistic exhibition was originally launched in 2018 which attracted thousands of admirers to the Cathedral in Chester.

The exhibition will take place at All Saints Church, Thelwall on June 29 and June 30 and runs until October.