Rome, Italy - Renowned musician Sting plays on a unique guitar made from wood salvaged from a migrant ship by inmates in an Italian prison housing notorious Mafia bosses. Made entirely from recycled materials, this guitar is a symbol of hope and rehabilitation for the inmates who helped build it.
The guitar was manufactured in Rome's high-security Levibbia prison, where inmates with musical talent are given the opportunity to work on the instrument as part of his program of rehabilitation. The wood used to make the guitar was collected from boats abandoned by immigrants arriving on the Italian coast in search of refuge.
Besides being an example of creative reuse, the guitar conveys a powerful message of hope and redemption. Inmates who worked on this project were given the opportunity to learn new skills and express themselves creatively through music.
A longtime social justice activist, Sting will play guitar on his upcoming tour of Italy. The musician has spoken of his admiration for the program and the positive impact it has had on the inmates involved.
In an interview with The Guardian, Sting said, "The guitar is a symbol of hope. She is a symbol of salvation. A symbol of a second chance. And for those guys, it was transformative. ”
Rebibbia Prison is known for its notable inmates, including members of the Sicilian Mafia and other organized crime syndicates. However, the music program was hailed as a success, with participants reporting increased confidence and a renewed sense of purpose.
Immigrant Boatwood Guitar is just one example of innovative and creative programs in prisons around the world. By providing opportunities for education, rehabilitation and personal growth, these programs offer hope for a brighter future for inmates and the communities they ultimately return to. Sting's performances with guitars made from recycled materials are a highlight of his tour and a testament to the power of music and creativity to foster positive change.
