This week we have an article written by another prisoner on the positive effects that learning the art of Origami had on his life. Click below to see the original article with colour pictures or keep scrolling for a text only version.
How Origami helped me in prison
How Origami Helped me in Prison – Text only version:
I am a life sentenced prisoner coming to the end now having been given parole. My journey before I found origami was bumpy and I found myself getting into trouble which led me to the segregation / block / choky and a whole number of other names this is called. Anyway I found myself given segregation time where I had a book and radio for company until another prisoner came to my door and asked if I wanted to learn origami.
At first I was sceptical but I thought I might as well give it a go if only for the chance at some conversation. In segregation you can’t have another prisoner in the cell with you so we had to do this through the glass observation panel – a little letterbox shaped window in the door.
My mate taught me that there were three basic stages. Step one – rip an A4 piece of paper into 16 pieces. Step two – learn the actual fold. Step three – connect the folded pieces into a ring form, the start of which holds them together.
Soon enough I was doing it, I was on my way to creating something out of paper. [sic] He told me I was building a Teddy Bear – I thought I’m glad you can see this – HA HA! I persevered you know what I found the Teddy it amazed me how this came together. I was even more shocked at how I picked this up. I now knew I could do this on my own which I did I have made hundreds of Teddy Bears. [sic]
I have now started to make swans which I donate or give to other prisoners for their families. I am now at Erlestoke prison where I am involved in helping others and they are helping me. In fact i regard this class as my family. [sic] Each one of these guys has helped me grow within the class and the teacher Helen, she is amazing she takes the time for each of us which helps the class to bond. [sic]. I would urge all to give this a go, you might surprise yourself.
Well I am now about to leave prison for good I will take this with me and I will show others outside. Take care I have enjoyed this journey in origami class, in fact I call it Helen’s Origami Army!
Jason wrote this article just before he achieved his parole. During his time in Erlestoke he was part of the origami team that produced 1,000 doves that were displayed in the nave of Salisbury Cathedral. To date the origami group have raised in excess of £10,000 through sales of their range of bespoke, hand made greeting cards. You too can join the team and give something back – make your time count!
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