Dozens of prisons were built in Britain between 1842 and 1877, many of which continue to operate today. Over more than 20 years, Andy Aitchison has photographed the interiors of these institutions. His book Incarcerated explores how Victorian penitentiary infrastructure has endured, and what these old buildings mean for the people who live and work in them.
HMP Lincoln prison, which currently operates, opened its doors at the end of the most prolific period of penitentiary construction in British history, when 90 prisons were built or significantly expanded between 1842 and 1877. According to the introductory essay in Incarcerated, what was displayed here was "Victorian faith in 'progress', materialised in bricks and mortar and applied to the challenge of reforming those who had set themselves against the law and society".
John, a resident of E wing at HMP Lincoln, suffers from dementia and spends his days shouting in his cell. When he goes to the exercise yard he sits in silence, enjoying the space, fresh air and sunlight.
