Fine Cell Work launch quilts exhibition

Fine Cell Work is a charity which operates in UK prisons, teaching prisoners needlework skills. As surprising as it seems, hundreds of inmates fill their long prison hours sewing cushions and quilts, creating a sense of pride and community. This assists them with rehabilitation as they have an activity to focus on, which also earns them money to spend on family or to help them get started on a new life when their sentence finishes. We have been doing some branding for Fine Cell Work, on an ongoing basis, so watch this space for future developments.

Last night my husband and I attended the Fine Cell Work launch of the new major exhibition of quilts at the V&A Museum. This was a massive fund raising event, attended by hundreds of patrons and friends of the charity. Chief Inspector of prisons, Lord Ramsbottom was in attendance, and gave a glowing speech about the work Fine Cell Work is doing. A small red quilt made by prisoners (shown behind Lord Ramsbottom in the photo) was auctioned for more than £5500, and the Fine Cell Work cushions were selling like hot-cakes. Overall it looked like a resounding success.

The quilt exhibition was worth a visit, it featured a quilt stitched by the prisoners of Fine Cell Work, as well as a quilt made by convicts on their way to Australia, creating a strange feeling of synchronicity through the ages.

I’m shown here with the Executive Director of Fine Cell Work, Dr Katy Emck, who is thrilled to be working with The Partners and keen to continue to build the relationship with us.