Handmade string bags known as bilum, are a cultural icon of Papua New Guinea. The popularity and economic value of these bags have also inspired other designs and have been harnessed by charitable organisations to help the disadvantaged. Male inmates of Bihute Jail in Goroka, Papua New Guinea use rice bags woven from synthetic materials as the basis for their embroideries of iconic motifs and slogans drawn from life outside the prison. Made available by the Sisters of Mercy at the Goroka show, the sale of these bags allows the inmates to buy small personal items. Sospen Wai’s work speaks of the artist’s desire to be reconnected with life on the outside.