Knife Angel in Shrewsbury: Find out when to attend vigils, share stories and enter arts contest
Series of events organised to make the most of the visit of the imposing sculpture
Stories will be shared, a vigil held and artwork created as part of the visit of the stunning Knife Angel to Shrewsbury.
The striking 27ft sculpture, created from more than 100,000 surrendered knives collected by police forces, is in The Square until Friday, July 31.
A series of events have been organised by Shrewsbury Town Council to inspire reflection, education and community action while the Knife Angel is here.
There will be a civic reflection event this Friday, July 3 from 6.30pm next to the sculpture, opened by the town’s mayor, Councillor Bernie Bentick.
That will be followed by a community vigil on Thursday, July 30. Further details for that event are to be announced in due course.
Salopians are also being encouraged to share their Knife Angel stories - any experiences or reflections they’ve had which have been inspired by the sculpture.
Photographs and messages can be shared on Facebook and Instagram by tagging @ShrewsburyTownCouncil or by using the hashtag #ShrewsburyKnifeAngel.
There is also a community art competition, inspired by the sculpture’s message of hope, peace, kindness and positive change.
The competition is open to children, young people and adults, with opportunities to submit artwork, poetry and creative writing, reflecting on themes including community strength, safer futures and turning pain into positive action.
Entries must be submitted by August 31. Winners will be announced on September 18.
Helen Ball, town clerk for Shrewsbury Town Council, said: “The Knife Angel has already prompted important conversations across the town about the impact of violence and the role we all have to play in creating safer communities.
“Through a programme of events, education and community engagement, we want to encourage people of all ages to reflect, learn and help create a lasting legacy from its visit to Shrewsbury.”
Since arriving in Shrewsbury just over a week ago, the Knife Angel has provided opportunities for schools, community organisations and local partners to engage in meaningful conversations around personal safety, violence prevention and community responsibility.
This Friday’s civic reflection event will bring together community representatives and guests to reflect on the themes that the Knife Angel represents.
The evening will also feature a special performance by local a cappella group The Men From Off.
The ten-piece vocal ensemble will perform Sharp Blade, an original song written in praise of Knife Angel creator Alfie Bradley.
Further information about the Knife Angel programme, events, competition and activities can be found at: shrewsburytowncouncil.gov.uk/knife-angel-visits-shrewsbury/