In a unique initiative started by the Tamil Nadu Prisons Department, you can now buy paintings by prison inmates as the state department has tied up with Poompuhar handicrafts, and is opening up alternative options for prisoners.

The artworks that are done by prisoners across the state, will now go on sale at the Poompuhar showroom in Chennai's Anna Salai and will also go online on their website and mobile app.

“There is so much talent among prisoners. Poompuhar will give a permanent space for prisoners’ art items from now on. The money raised from this will be given to the Prisons Department, which will then forward the proceeds to the family of the prisoners,” an official told The Hindu.

Tamil Nadu has about 20 prison bazaar outlets. Prisoners who show interest are trained in fine arts and crafts, the report adds.

Here are some of the pictures.

(Mother Theresa)