The exhibition showcases artwork created by inmates and demonstrates how education and vocational training support rehabilitation.
More than 170 artworks, including Aboriginal paintings, contemporary works and metal sculptures, will be displayed and available for purchase.
The Northern Territory's Behind the Wire exhibition is returning to Darwin and will be officially launched on Friday, 31 July 2026, marking the return of one of the Territory's long-running rehabilitation initiatives for the first time since 2019.
More than an art exhibition, Behind the Wire showcases artwork created by inmates and demonstrates how education, creative practice and vocational training can support rehabilitation and reintegration.
Held at the heritage-listed Fannie Bay Gaol, the exhibition also acknowledges the cultural and historical significance of the site while showcasing positive rehabilitation outcomes.
Minister for Corrections Gerard Maley welcomed the return of the exhibition as a great opportunity to showcase to visitors and the community the importance of rehabilitation programs in developing new skills.
"It is great to see the exhibition return, bringing the Department of Corrections and the community together to appreciate the great vocational and rehabilitation work being carried out across the Territory."
More than 170 artworks created by adults in custody from correctional centres across the Territory will be on display, including traditional Aboriginal paintings, contemporary artworks and metal sculptures.
The exhibition features work produced through prisoner education and training programs, with some participants undertaking Certificate II and Certificate IV qualifications in Visual Arts.
The exhibition builds on the success of the Greenbush Goes Outback exhibition, held in Alice Springs from late 2025 through to early 2026, where more than half of the artworks were sold on opening night.
Proceeds from artwork sales are shared between Victims of Crime NT, participating artists and the Department of Corrections to support ongoing education programs, materials and exhibition costs.
Industries, Skills, and Employment Director of Prisoner Education, Amanda Hart said Behind the Wire reflects the positive outcomes achieved through education and training.
"Behind the Wire highlights the talent and potential of people participating in education, skills and training in our facilities and demonstrates rehabilitation in action," Ms Hart said.
Curator of the exhibition and Charles Darwin University art lecturer Susan McDonnell said the program provided powerful tools for rehabilitation.
"Creativity and self-discovery help build positive and productive lives," Ms McDonnell said.
Behind the Wire is proudly supported by the Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory.
Public viewing will run from 1-14 August 2026, Wednesday to Sunday from 10.00 am to 2.00 pm, with free entry.
