The Koestler Trust
Since 1962, Koester Arts has been inspiring participation in the arts by people in prisons and other secure settings and building public recognition of their creative work. We are unique in our reach — engaging with every prison and criminal justice setting in the UK, as well as British prisoners abroad. Our annual Koestler Awards, mentoring, employment and family engagement projects harness the transformative power of the arts. Each year we help over 4,000 people in custody, on community sentences and probation to change their lives.
Through exhibitions, events, performances, publications and online showcasing we offer a rare counterbalance to negative depictions and stereotypes. Our strong partnerships with leading arts venues and internationally renowned artists amplify our work to huge audiences and ensure our resources generate the maximum impact. If you would like to find out about ways to support, do get in touch with our Development Team at support-us@koestlerarts.org.uk. With your help we can do more to reward achievement, build self-confidence and open new horizons for some of society’s most marginalised individuals.