Living Inside is a new exhibition at Kilmainham Gaol Museum.

Drawing on Dr Oisín Wall’s research on the history of prison reform organisations in Ireland, using both historical objects and the work of photojournalist Derek Speirs, Living Inside explores how the Irish prison system has changed since the 1960s. It tells the stories of six people whose experiences speak to aspects of Irish prison history, from prisoners’ protests against unhealthy living conditions to the psychological strain faced by prison officers.

Health is central to the history of prisons, both as a focus for reform and as a weapon of protest through hunger strikes and other desperate measures. Each story shows how reform, health, hope, and fear have shaped the prison system that we have today.

The exhibition will run from 9 February – 19 May 2019

Admission is free but booking is essential at http://www.kilmainhamgaolmuseum.ie