Charity no. 1169287
Prodigal Arts Receipts and Payments Accounts 31 March 2023
Prodigal Arts
Reference and administrative details
For the year ended 31 March 2023
| Charity number | 1169287 | |
|---|---|---|
| Registered office and | The Studio | |
| operational address | Suite 322 | |
| 179 Whiteladies Road | ||
| Bristol | ||
| BS8 2AG | ||
| Trustees | The trustees who served during the year and up to the date of this report | |
| were as follows: | ||
| Andrew Street | Chair | |
| Richard Hiscoke | ||
| Peter Gifford | Treasurer | |
| Nicolas Ruff | (Appointed 17 March 2023) | |
| Independent | Godfrey Wilson Limited | |
| examiners | Chartered accountants and statutory auditors | |
| 5th Floor Mariner House | ||
| 62 Prince Street | ||
| Bristol | ||
| BS1 4QD |
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Prodigal Arts
Report of the trustees
For the year ended 31 March 2023
Reference and administrative information set out on page 1 forms part of this report. The financial statements comply with current statutory requirements and the constitution.
Objectives and activities
The objects of the CIO are to:
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Promote the rehabilitation of offenders and ex-offenders; and
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Prevent or relieve poverty or financial hardship among offenders; and ex-offenders, in particular but not exclusively by, the provision of equipment and training in art, and the provision of a mentoring programme, with the aim of helping offenders and ex-offenders to realise their creative talent and acquire creative skills which will assist them with re-integrating into the community, developing a responsible work ethic, and provide them with links to employment opportunities.
Prodigal Arts is a charity working with talented artistic offenders with a view to helping their rehabilitation through the arts. The skills of our ‘Creatives on The Out’ (COTO) and ‘Creatives on the In’ (COTI) have been developed through various projects during the financial period.
Achievements and Performance
Our ‘Creatives on The Out’ rolling programme
This is aimed at artists that we originally worked with in prison, who are leading meaningful crime-free lives back in the community, and engaging with art and our COTO rolling creative mentoring programme.
The artists have been provided with a new art project every few months. The projects span various themes and are supported by weekly bespoke mentoring sessions. Successful pieces have been showcased on the Prodigal Arts website, as well as being available online and at events. The main projects during the financial year were:
‘Art in Lockdown’ – Jan - May 2022
The theme was set in preparation for an exhibition aimed to give insight into the hard work and creative persistence our artists demonstrated as they navigated through the murky waters of the Covid years, and how they triumphed with their art despite the unpredictability of the times.
‘Micro/Macro’ - June 2022
For this project, artists were required to play with the idea of big, small and relativity.
‘Autumnal Studies’ - Sep 2022
A project about getting out and observing the changes in nature, and about reflecting this in a sketchbook. Artists were asked to try to enjoy ‘the process’, rather than fixate on an end piece, by filling a sketchbook with lots of studies and observations in their natural surroundings.
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Prodigal Arts
Report of the trustees
For the year ended 31 March 2023
‘New Beginnings’ (revisited) - Jan 2023
A re-look at a project, two years after the lifting of Covid restrictions. ‘New Beginnings’, a phrase used as a loose window in which to look through for inspiration.
Our In-prison COTI art programme
We restarted delivering artistic coaching in HMP Leyhill in November 2022, starting with our ‘Curiosity’ art programme, where participants had the opportunity to explore a wide and diverse variety of art practices for participants to discover new techniques they may not have tried before, and to gain new insight and inspiration for their future projects.
Following this initial programme, artists then chose their individual pathways based on what they enjoyed / interested them the most, with newly found skills and a creative toolset to pursue personal projects and creative ambitions with continued support and guidance from our Creative Director.
New artists joining the class were invited to participate in activities from the ‘Curiosity’ programme.
New ‘umbrella’ projects are commenced every month for all artists to explore on top of, or as part of their own practice.
Exhibitions, other activities and project s
There have been two Prodigal Arts exhibitions showcasing work from our COTOs during the year:
Exhibition 1 - May 2022 – ‘Art in Lockdown’
Our first exhibition since pre-pandemic, ‘Art in Lockdown,’ showcased the artwork our cohort of COTOs who had been busy producing work during 2020 – 2022.
During times of uncertainty and hardship, using the arts to focus the attention and tune the mind can be an incredibly powerful outlet. The exhibition was attended by three of our artists, who were hugely encouraged by the success of the evening in both sales of their artworks and comments from the attendees. The impact of this on their confidence and self-worth is unquantifiable, but best illustrated by several comments made by them (see later in this report).
The exhibition was hugely symbolic in being our first post-pandemic public event, and successfully served to raise the profile of our work in the Bristol area.
This show comprised of a private view at St Georges, Bristol, and a two week display at Cass Art, Park St, Bristol.
Exhibition 2 – November / December 2022 ‘A Winter Exhibition’
We held a second, double exhibition at the end of November going into December, starting with a successful private view at St Georges and continuing for another three weeks in the gallery space at Cass Art, Park Street, Bristol.
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Prodigal Arts
Report of the trustees
For the year ended 31 March 2023
Images from ‘A Winter Exhibition’ at St Georges, Bristol, 2022
May 2022
Prodigal artist Andrew was commissioned through Prodigal Arts by a Queen’s Council Judge to illustrate the Court building that the judge had worked at for twenty years upon his retirement. The piece was executed exquisitely and received with immense gratitude and praise.
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Prodigal Arts
Report of the trustees
For the year ended 31 March 2023
Sixty-One Christmas Card Commission, December 2022
A unique project whereby Prodigal Artist and COTO, Andrew, was once again asked to create a new Bristol themed Christmas card commission for charity Sixty-One.
Our impact can also be demonstrated from following quotes:
COTI’s:
HMP Leyhill
Phil:
‘Art, more than anything else, has helped me get through prison. It has given me a window through which I can see and create beauty in as a place where there is none. The process of creating art is calming and reflective and it is something I will continue to treasure through the rest of my life.
Prodigal Arts have been so supportive since I arrived at HMP Leyhill. They have provided their time and skills and given me the opportunity to work on my skills and participate in exhibitions such as this. I am very grateful for the doors that have been opened and I look forward to continuing to work with Prodigal Arts through the rest of my sentence and on my return to normal society.
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Prodigal Arts
Report of the trustees
For the year ended 31 March 2023
Participating has helped with confidence. Trying new things alongside like-minded people has given me the confidence to show other people what I’ve done.
I’ve tried new things such as printing and then incorporated this into new finished art pieces. [Prodigal Arts] helps with my mental health and also with my practical skills. It helps with social anxiety by providing a safe calm environment. I enjoy trying new things and also being given the freedom to take art wherever it wants to go. It feels good to know that other people are seeing and taking enjoyment from something I have created.
Prodigal Arts gives prisoners a route into the community and enables engagement while still being in prison. It also provides some continuity when released.
It is my main goal to be able continue my art when finishing my sentence and when released. Prodigal Arts have really helped me in my rehabilitation and given me a way to express myself and increase my skills as well as building my confidence and mental health.’
Kenny:
‘I’m sure the feeling of Art will always be with me and through Prodigal Arts have kept it alive in me.
I am finding different skills every time I visit a Prodigal arts class, Its nice to be set free on different kinds of art. I have found the freedom to use any kind of paint or just about anything - You can’t call art a rehabilitation! It’s much deeper.
I’m sure the feeling of Art will always be with me and through Prodigal Arts have kept it alive in me.’
Pete :
‘Prodigal has given me the chance to explore other mediums.
[Prodigal Arts has] given me the confidence to move on. I think prodigal gives me the confidence to move on and enjoy whatever I do. I think that just being able to paint lowers the stress element of being in prison and prodigal has helped to show me that I can continue to improve.’
John B :
‘ Prodigal Arts workshops are an outlet for my art and a way of contacting the outside world.’
HMP Bristol
LB : ‘I can channel madness from my head through art rather than elsewhere’.
CZ : ‘ It is relaxing and a way to spend my time in prison’
MW : ‘I see your class and it looks lit [good], I can’t lie!’
Prison resident : ‘This is actually the best class, it’s so relaxing’
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Prodigal Arts
Report of the trustees
For the year ended 31 March 2023
COTO’s:
‘Ruinbow was born out of the pandemic, rainbows were plastered everywhere so when I see a rainbow now it is associated with the bad memories of lockdown, so they are therefore ruined. So I wanted to reclaim the rainbow.
I am deeply passionate about art and I think about the process and techniques artists have applied to create their art as well as the meaning behind it.
The creative process is very unique and satisfying when I produce something that I like.
Prodigal arts has helped me develop my art skills through mentorship and art supplies. They have encouraged me to be the best that I can be and pushed me to higher levels. I have had a turbulent year since release from prison and prodigal arts has given me a sense of purpose to keep going.
I find the creative process can help me express myself especially as I find this hard anyway, because I'm autistic.’
Davey:
‘ Coming out into the world again, art gave me something to focus on and even though I’ve been ill quite a bit and my health hasn’t been that good its given me a distraction from my illness and built my confidence back up again.
With your encouragement with the autumn project, I have something to cling on to and get back into again.
Well, it's been a godsend really, especially with lockdown and everything else that’s gone on, it’s given me something to focus on and now I have more opportunities, and also loads more ideas…’
Colin:
‘Art has encouraged me to look further into other arts and crafts, and as I am now in my retirement.
Art allows me to connect to other people and during lockdown Facebook and zoom meetings networking and chatting with other artists have been a godsend.’
Andrew :
‘Art has kept me going during my darkest days and given me the strength to find hope in hopeless times.
When I was in prison, I could access art materials (within reason), so I was able to draw pictures for other prisoners and even staff – including Governors! I was well rewarded for my efforts, but it wasn’t about that. For me it was seeing how much they appreciated what I’d created for them that ‘sealed the deal.
When I joined Prodigal Arts it opened a door of opportunities, and that door has never closed. Now out of prison I am able to continue sending my artwork to Prodigal so it can reach a wider audience. Sometimes I’m under pressure to meet deadlines for particular pieces, but I usually find a way somehow.
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Prodigal Arts
Report of the trustees
For the year ended 31 March 2023
As an artist with Prodigal Arts, I feel part of something, a sense of belonging. I feel proud of what we ( collectively ) have achieved, and I know how Prodigal Arts’ work with prisoners boosts their confidence because they feel valued...
Finally, I’d like to thank everyone attending today because the fact that you are here speaks volumes for me, and no doubt does the same for the other artists at Prodigal. Your support translates into a sense of worth for us, which in turn builds our confidence.’ – Sent by Andrew to be read in their absence at our 2022 Winter Exhibition
‘Art helped me cope during a long and difficult prison sentence and I know how important art and creativity is for those who are in prison right now. When someone praises a prisoner for what they have created, it gives them hope which can plant the seed of positive change in them.
I like to think outside the box, and I can then put what I imagine inside the box so the viewer can sense what I see. Art is the best thing in my life right now and I feel blessed to have the ability to create what I achieve.
Every piece I draw is different, so the next one starts another journey of learning and self-discovery. Along the way I collect some more confidence and self-worth.
Prodigal Arts now supports each journey I take and allows me to explore new ideas. I am so grateful for this because I have to think outside the box I’m already thinking outside of, and I imagine ideas I never thought were possible. I try to be as good as I can be when I draw but I know my best drawing is yet to be drawn.’
Nicholas:
‘I consider myself more of an illustrator than artist. Usually, I have used my drawings as a way to communicate an idea or express my opinion/untangle my thoughts about something as I often struggle to get things across verbally.
Prodigal Arts has helped me greatly. The ongoing briefs and projects have given me a positive focus to fill my time both on the inside and out. Being able to see my work as a finished product has given me a real sense of achievement.
It can be, and has been, difficult to stay positive while out in the real world dealing with the consequences of my actions. Having a mentor to keep encouraging and developing ideas helps distract from the negativity.’
The impact of our work can also be illustrated by the feedback from those who purchase artwork; all such feedback is in turn passed on to our artists:
‘I cannot begin to thank you enough for the artwork that you have produced for our Christmas card. I am blown away by your finished design, the way you have so sensitively interpreted our brief and the care and attention to detail that you have put into the card,
Your artwork so beautifully captures the essence of what the Christmas Gift Project is about. I love the warmth that you have portrayed in the caf6 scene, the sense of fun with Father Christmas arriving on a gondola, the nativity tucked away and the hot air balloon carrying a message of hope. The more you look at the card, the more there is to see - it is quite simply amazing!
You have been so generous to us in donating your time and waving your commission fee for the card for us to donate. We really are so grateful to you.
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Prodigal Arts
Report of the trustees
For the year ended 31 March 2023
I was also really impacted by the words that you have written that go with the card. They too are beautiful and carry such a poignant message.
I want you to know how thankful we are to you and what an amazing gift you have in interpreting the brief so sensitively and beautifully. Your talent has certainly blessed us and will go on to bless all those who receive your card through the Christmas Gift Project.’ CEO, Sixty-One charity
‘You have made me so happy with your glorious drawing; I am really sorry that I have taken so long to write this letter of thanks and hope that you will forgive me.
I am enjoying retirement having worked at Snaresbrook since 2001. Your picture captures not only the detail (or much of it) but also the spirit of the whole place and I am so very grateful to you.
I don’t regret anything, but I do wish that I had your talent. I have looked at the drawing so many times since I received it in May of this year. Almost every time I find something new in it.
It is astonishing that this was done on the basis of photos and your own research and with the pressure of time – the end result is just perfect.
We have put it up in our lounge/study and I look forward to seeing it every day.
I don’t want to be too philosophical about it, but it will be for me a real reminder – not only of the building itself but for the human spirit – the ability of someone to find a better purpose in life and to do great things. You really are a true inspiration, and I am very grateful to you.
My very best wishes for your continued success.’ Retired QC.
‘Hi, I don't know your name but I want to send you a heartfelt thank you for having created such an astounding piece of art. I'm absolutely in love with it and everyone I proudly show it to shares my excitement.
I have worked in the criminal justice system for 5 years now and as you can see from the photo I have your painting on my desk. Seeing it every day at work truly reminds me why I care about my job.
I really hope that you are well and that you will continuing to create such beautiful art - if ever you do I would love to see it. Thank you again and all the very best’. Customer
Exhibition Comments:
‘Beautiful show, great charity, well organised Elliot. Most of all astonishing artwork. Andrew’s drawings are beautiful and very considered. Love the embossing on one in particular. Also love the colours on Collins paintings - a grasp at colour one not seen in a long time. All the other artists are very witty, talented and exciting. Can’t wait to see the next show.’
‘Such a talented artists, the team at Prodigal Arts are amazing’
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Prodigal Arts
Report of the trustees
For the year ended 31 March 2023
Public benefit
The trustees confirm that they have had regard to the guidance issued by the Charity Commission on public benefit.
Financial Review
We are very grateful for the generosity of the grant-making trusts who have funded our work over the year. Without their support, Prodigal Arts would not be able to support the artists whose lives are impacted, as expressed by many of them in this report.
The charity's principal sources of funds are from grant-making charities, donations from individuals and from its own income generation, through artwork sales. This comprised of grant income and other donations of £34,355 and income generation through artwork sales of £1,849. These streams of income comprise the following percentages of total receipts in the year of 95% and 5%, respectively.
Prodigal Arts aims to keep approximately three months running costs in reserves. This is also to cover emergency unexpected costs. We have met this target during the year ending 31 March 2023, and continue to do so.
Post financial year end, the charity repaid the remaining £4,000 of interest free loans from its trustees. The charity's main expenditure during the financial year related to the employment of:
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Our artistic director who delivered all of the mentoring sessions with the ‘Artists on the Out’ as well as developing our work, once again mentoring artists inside prison. He also curates our exhibitions and works with our sales and marketing administrator in ongoing development of our website. Post year end he has been developing the many opportunities that we are being presented with to develop our work in other prisons in our region.
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Our part time sales and marketing administrator who has responsibility for the planning and administration around exhibitions, promotes online sales through newsletters and social media posts, develops marketing material and gives general administrative support to the charity.
Independent examiners
Godfrey Wilson Limited were re-appointed as independent examiners to the charity during the year and have expressed their willingness to continue in that capacity.
Approved by the trustees on 26 January 2024 and signed on their behalf by
Richard Hiscoke
Richard Hiscoke, Trustee
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Independent examiner's report
To the trustees of
Prodigal Arts
I report to the trustees on my examination of the accounts of Prodigal Arts (the charity) for the year ended 31 March 2023, which are set out on pages 12 to 13.
Respective responsibilities of trustees and examiner
As the trustees of the charity you are responsible for the preparation of the accounts in accordance with the requirements of the Charities Act 2011 (‘the Act’).
I report in respect of my examination of the charity’s accounts carried out under section 145 of the 2011 Act and in carrying out my examination I have followed all the applicable Directions given by the Charity Commission under section 145(5)(b) of the Act.
Independent examiner's statement
I have completed my examination. I confirm that no material matters have come to my attention in connection with the examination giving me cause to believe that in any material respect:
(1) accounting records were not kept in respect of the charity as required by section 130 of the Act; or
- (2) the accounts do not accord with those records.
I have no concerns and have come across no other matters in connection with the examination to which attention should be drawn in this report in order to enable a proper understanding of the accounts to be reached.
Date: 26 January 2024 William Guy Blake ACA Member of the ICAEW For and on behalf of:
Godfrey Wilson Limited
Chartered accountants and statutory auditors 5th Floor Mariner House 62 Prince Street Bristol BS1 4QD
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Prodigal Arts
Receipts and payments account
For the year ended 31 March 2023
| 12 months ended | 12 months ended | |
|---|---|---|
| 31 March 2023 | 31 March 2022 | |
| £ | £ | |
| Receipts | ||
| Grants from trusts | 14,150 | 23,950 |
| Donations and legacies | 20,205 | 225 |
| Sale of artwork: sales of prints | 600 | 521 |
| Sale of artwork: sale of cards | 129 | 238 |
| Sale of artwork: other commissions | - | 148 |
| Sale of artwork: sales of original artwork | 1,120 | 214 |
| Sale of artwork: artwork commissions | - | 1,128 |
| Total receipts | 36,204 | 26,424 |
| Payments | ||
| Payroll expenses: total staff costs | 21,092 | 12,317 |
| Art printing and framing | 285 | 1,292 |
| Office and mailbox rent | 322 | 1,672 |
| Other professional services | 1,165 | 181 |
| Commission to PA artists | 1,014 | 772 |
| Art materials and equipment | - | 57 |
| Exhibition costs | 728 | 212 |
| Office/general administrative expenses | 526 | 260 |
| Insurances | 196 | - |
| IT and other equipment | - | 1,352 |
| Travel and accommodation | 34 | 30 |
| Phone costs | 43 | 324 |
| Website costs | 24 | 13 |
| Printing, postage and stationery | - | 72 |
| Bank charges | 79 | 104 |
| Donation to Victim Support | 51 | 63 |
| Subtotal | 25,559 | 18,721 |
| Repayment of trustee loans | - | 2,000 |
| Total payments | 25,559 | 20,721 |
| Net receipts | 10,645 | 5,703 |
| Cash funds at 1 April 2022 | 10,634 | 4,931 |
| Cash funds at 31 March 2023 | 21,279 | 10,634 |
All income and expenditure for the current and prior period was unrestricted.
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Prodigal Arts
Statement of assets and liabilities
As at 31 March 2023
| Cash funds Cash at bank and in hand Total cash funds Cash funds Unrestricted funds Total cash funds |
2023 £ 21,279 21,279 21,279 21,279 |
2022 £ 10,634 |
|---|---|---|
| 10,634 | ||
| 10,634 | ||
| 10,634 |
Loans from trustees represent interest free loans provided by two trustees. The amount due to trustees at 31 March 2023 was £4,000 (2022: £4,000).
Approved by the trustees on 26 January 2024 and signed on their behalf by
Richard Hiscoke
Richard Hiscoke, Trustee
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