Since the introduction of the Yellow Ribbon Art Competition last year, the number of entries this year has jumped six times to 579 art pieces, submitted by 427 inmates.

'Art is a very conducive medium for inmates to express themselves. It helps them to find an aim in life,' said Assistant Superintendent of Prisons (ASP) Caleb Tan, 32.

Aptly themed 'Re-connection', this year's competition encourages inmates to reconnect with the family, community work, faith and themselves.

Thirty finalists saw their art pieces put up for display and judging at Changi Prison Cluster A on Wednesday.

The standard of art pieces is much higher this year as compared to last year, and the pieces come from the heart, said the panel of judges, which included movie director Eric Khoo and the dean of faculty of fine arts at Lasalle-SIA College of the Arts Milenko Prvacki.

For some of the inmates, the highlight of the day would be the afternoon visit by family members and loved ones to the prison to view their art works.

Said ASP Tan: 'Some of the things that inmates cannot say, they are able to express through the medium of art.'

For 41-year-old ex-heroin addict Mohammad (not his real name), his batik on silk art piece reflects his quest for forgiveness and acceptance from his loved ones.

'I feel guilty thinking about what I have done before. I hope they can forgive me,' said Mohammad.

'Also, I want to find a job related to art next time as I enjoy it,' he added.