The Koestler Trust is the national charity that awards, exhibits and sells artworks by UK prisoners, offenders and high security patients. Founded in 1962 by the writer Arthur Koestler, the trust receives nearly 5,000 entries to its annual awards scheme, gives out over £30,000 in prizes, and sells many of the works through an annual exhibition and other channels. The awards and sales provide strong motivation for offenders to participate in the arts, and often have a profound emotional impact on individuals who have rarely been rewarded for achievements in their lives. The artworks cover an astonishing array of forms and styles, and are often breathtaking in their quality and power.