Women use collage art in a Lima prisonCEFR A2
6 Mar 2026
Adapted from Adriana Hildenbrand, Global Voices • CC BY 3.0
Photo by steven maarten william V, Unsplash
Support for tougher crime policies grew in Peru, and in 2025 the government changed how prisons appear in public life. Social reintegration projects became less visible and authorities increased controls and visible surveillance of prisoners and visitors.
In Lima a collage workshop ran in a women's prison in 2024–2025. The group met weekly for two-hour sessions. Women used images to tell stories they could not always say in words. The practice allowed individual reflection, creative work and helped keep collective bonds alive.
After a prison evaluation one participant moved to lower security while another stayed in maximum security, so art became one of the few places they could meet. Women said prison stares focus on female sexuality, including homoerotic sexuality, and some newcomers learned practical survival tips from more experienced women.
Difficult words
- reintegration — projects to help people return to society
- surveillance — watching people closely in public places
- collage — art made from different pictures or pieces
- participant — a person who takes part in an activity
- security — how safe a place or person is
- homoerotic — sexual feelings or attraction between same sex
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- Do you think art can help people in prison? Why or why not?
- Would you join a weekly two-hour workshop like this? Why or why not?
- How can people keep collective bonds in difficult places like prisons?
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