ABSTRACT
Over an eighteen month period art therapy was part of a programme devised to help prisoners diagnosed as HIV seropositive and those who had already developed AIDS. Drawing on the theoretical framework of D.W. Winnicott and Wilfred Bion, I attempted to provide a facilitating and containing space for a small group of long-term prisoners. Thoughts and feelings, whether concerning HIV status or concerning prison life and confinement, found expression through the medium of paint, clay and other art materials. Fears and phantasies about death and dying were explored, sometimes privately, sometimes shared within the group. In this chapter I have opened a window giving the reader a glimpse of the group in progress, with particular focus on the imagery and work of one man. Some of the difficulties of working as a therapist within the prison system are addressed and the importance of support and supervision is emphasised.
