A arte do inventar: artesanatos de presos políticos em um presídio da ditadura civil-militar (1964-1985)

Abstract

The Paulo Sarasate Penal Institute (IPPS) in Ceará was used as a political prison during the civil-military dictatorship (1964-85). There, the left-wing militants of the armed left in the 70's, who had to face new challenges and experiences. In this process, they redefined themselves as individuals and political subjects. Using the breaches of the system, activists sought to circumvent the impositions of the prison corps. They even gave other senses to the physical structures of the prison. Among the major mobilizations of political prisoners of Ceará was to produce pieces of handicraft and art. The sales of the pieces made possible some pecuniary resources that helped to support the families of those incarcerated. There were, however, other significances as those objects. It was a form of identity and links between left-wing militants; prisoners to denounce the dictatorship and the existence of political prisoners; political prisoners to express their political positions in favor of armed struggle; were seen as a manifestation of subversion by the dictatorship; therapy instruments and development of artistic sensibilities and skills; means of endorsing the Amnesty Campaign and encouraging and thanking those who were engaged in defending democracy and releasing political prisoners.