Artwork created by Correctional Centre prisoners was displayed at an auction at the Junee Liquorice and Chocolate Factory on Friday.

About 30 inmate paintings were up for sale with several selling for over $400.

All funds will go to Anglicare’s Ignite Youth mentoring program.

Respected art teacher Anthony Boerboom was the driving force behind the concept which enables inmates to display their talents beyond prison walls.

Boerboom started volunteering with his current group of inmates over a year ago, introducing them to art and encouraging them express themselves in their work.

He said artwork helped inmates develop new skills, confidence and self-esteem with a clear pathway to further their prospects in art, education and employment.

“They’ve had too many negative things in their lives and this turns that all around,” Boerboom says.

“It involves them in positive thinking and positive experiences, which is what they really need.

“For there to be some outside recognition of their efforts is just so valuable.”

Friday’s auction was the culmination of endless hard work on the part of both Boerboom and his understudies.

The talented artist will continue working with his current group, saying he plans on taking their skills to the next level.

Boerboom hopes to take more budding artists under his wing in the near future.

Anglicare Riverina general manager Brad Addison says the auction is crucial in supporting vulnerable youth by helping fund Anglicare’s Ignite Youth mentoring program.

“Ignite Youth really makes a difference for young people at risk.” Addison said.

“But it receives no government funding at all, so the auction night was invaluable for the program.”

Addison was quick to label the night a success.

“You couldn’t have fit many more people into the licorice factory,” he said.

“Junee’s community spirit is amazing.”