Knife Angel: A Monument Against Violence

The Knife Angel, also known as the National Monument Against Violence & Aggression, is a powerful contemporary sculpture created by British artist Alfie Bradley. Standing at 27 feet (8.2 meters) tall, this striking piece is made from over 100,000 knives collected from amnesty bins and police seizures across the United Kingdom.

Creation and Purpose

The Knife Angel was completed in 2018 at the British Ironworks Centre in Oswestry, England. The project aimed to raise awareness about the devastating effects of knife crime and to serve as a memorial for those who have lost their lives to such violence. The sculpture was constructed using knives that were disinfected and blunted before being welded onto a steel frame to form the angel's body and wings.

Community Involvement

Families who have been affected by knife crime were invited to engrave personal messages onto the blades used in the sculpture. Over 80 families participated, adding a deeply emotional and personal element to the artwork. The Knife Angel not only stands as a symbol of the consequences of violence but also as a beacon of hope and a call for social change.

National Tour

Since its completion, the Knife Angel has toured various locations across the UK, including major cities like London, Manchester, and Liverpool. Each stop on the tour is accompanied by educational programs and community events aimed at promoting anti-violence messages and encouraging young people to think about the impact of their actions.

Impact and Reception

The Knife Angel has received widespread acclaim for its powerful message and artistic merit. It has sparked important conversations about knife crime and violence, both in the UK and internationally. While some have criticized the sculpture for potentially glorifying violence, the overwhelming response has been positive, with many praising its ability to provoke thought and inspire change.

Conclusion

The Knife Angel stands as a poignant reminder of the lives lost to knife crime and the urgent need for societal change. Through its national tour and the stories it carries, the sculpture continues to educate, inspire, and challenge communities to work towards a safer, more peaceful future.

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