The article analyses problems occurring while implementing arts activities organized for the inmates at the penitentiary institutions in Lithuania. The survey conducted in Lukiškes prison, Vilnius 2nd Correction House and Panevėžys Correction House revealed that fine arts, music and drama activities are carried out there and are useful for the prisoners since their help positively change their system of values and behaviour. But only a small part of inmates have an opportunity to participate in these activities. Artistic activity is one of the ways to direct the creative power of offenders for the positive internal change, to contribute to their better self-understanding and to seek change in their lives and, thus, become useful members of society. It is concluded that it is relevant and necessary to develop artistic activities and/or art therapy activities at Lithuanian penitentiary institutions, to create possibilities for a better accessibility of workshops for convicts and to train competent professionals to carry out this work.

The article analyses problems occurring while implementing arts activities organized for the inmates at the penitentiary institutions in Lithuania. The survey conducted in Lukiškes prison, Vilnius 2nd Correction House and Panevėžys Correction House revealed that fine arts, music and drama activities are carried out there and are useful for the prisoners since their help positively change their system of values and behaviour. But only a small part of inmates have an opportunity to participate in these activities. Artistic activity is one of the ways to direct the creative power of offenders for the positive internal change, to contribute to their better self-understanding and to seek change in their lives and, thus, become useful members of society. It is concluded that it is relevant and necessary to develop artistic activities and/or art therapy activities at Lithuanian penitentiary institutions, to create possibilities for a better accessibility of workshops for convicts and to train competent professionals to carry out this work.