After spending 10 years in prison, inmate Vishal Krishna has discovered a skill he hopes will help him earn a living and rebuild his life when he is released.
Krishna, who is from Cuvu in Sigatoka, says he had an interest in drawing from a young age but never seriously pursued it as he had to focus on working and earning a living.
He says after entering prison, he turned to drawing to occupy his time and cope with being away from his family.
Krishna says he continued practising and eventually discovered a talent he did not realise he had.
He has now been part of the Fiji Corrections Service Art Gallery for three years and will be among the inmates showcasing their work during a week-long art exhibition beginning tomorrow at Grand Pacific Hotel.
One of Krishna's major pieces is titled Never Lose Hope, which reflects his outlook on life and his hopes for the future.
He says the sunset in the painting represents the time that has passed, while the new dawn represents a new beginning.
Krishna says the message behind the painting is to never lose hope because there is always a new day ahead and people should remain focused on their future.
Krishna says while he does not necessarily plan to open his own gallery, he wants painting to remain a part of his life after his release.
During the exhibition, 60 percent of the money earned from the sale of an inmate's work will go to the artist, while 40 percent will go to the Fiji Corrections Service.
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Art gives inmate Vishal Krishna hope for a new beginning after prison
