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The 26-foot-tall artwork, titled “Knife Angel,” was created by Alfie Bradley over more than two years. The monument is constructed entirely from over 100,000 knives and swords donated anonymously following the “Save a Life, Surrender Your Knife” amnesty program run by the Ironwork UK Centre in Shropshire, with others coming from police and even victims/families of those who were victims.
The process involved handling over 100,000 knives and swords.
The finished artwork.
Before being used to construct the monument, the weapons were cleaned and treated to remove any sharp edges, preventing injury to people during transportation and subsequent exhibition.
A close-up of "hands that have been honed".
Alfie Bradley's idea was inspired by a documentary about knife crime in the UK and a desire to raise awareness of the dangers of this weapon on the streets. But above all, the angel symbol offers a sense of "healing"—remembering those who have died from knife violence, soothing the pain of their families, and warning individuals who harbor intentions of using weapons to harm others.
Knife Angel in Coventry.
Knife Angle in Telford.
Knife Angel in Derby.
During its national anti-violence tour, Knife Angel traveled through a total of 11 towns and cities, sending a message against all acts of aggression and harm caused by weapons.
The process of transporting and setting up Knife Angel at the tour venue.
Due to the impact of Covid-19, Knife Angel is currently located at the British Ironwork Centre. Knife Angel's National Anti-Violence Tour will be rescheduled after the pandemic situation subsides to ensure the safety of the public.
