STIR is an arts magazine written by prisoners and designed and artworked by Traffic. The Editorial Board is based at HMP Shotts but the work contained in its pages comes from Barlinnie, Cornton Vale, Dumfries, Glenochil, Greenock and Low Moss, as well as Shotts.

STIR is different. From the outset the aim was to create an arts magazine that would stand comparison with its peers. In its pages you will find interviews with famous artists and writers, poems and stories, paintings and drawings and encouragement and information for those who want to get involved in arts projects in prison and on release. The Editorial Board strive to ensure that they are inclusive in their approach welcoming work from first time artists as well as those who are more experienced. The quality of the work in STIR is outstanding and has been recognised by the Koestler Trust and by the Scottish Magazine Awards.

STIR was also recognised by the Herald Society Awards which awarded it Education Initiative of the Year. A website was also developed to allow members of the public and families and friends of our contributors to see the work produced.

“The staff at Traffic have been a tremendous support to us in the development and on-going success of the STIR magazine. Traffic approached this unusual commission with real enthusiasm and engagement from the outset and the relationship with them is a genuine partnership. We see them very much as a part of the team and value their experience, drive and creative vision. Nothing has been too much trouble for them and they are very much a part of the success of our magazine.”