STUDENTS from Weston-super-Mare have created their own sculpture inspired by the Knife Angel.
Voyage Learning Campus have unveiled their ‘Beacon of Hope’ sculpture, which has been on display at the Sovereign Shopping Centre, but will be installed in the Bournville neighbourhood imminently.
It depicts a lighthouse measuring 4.5 meters in height and features words that students chose and crafted from steel sheets, by using a plasma cutter.
The project was coordinated by artists Char Smith and Felix Rowe from Bristol-based WTF Workshops, and led by Alliance Homes in partnership with North Somerset Council.
Donations from contractors Jones Building Group, and A1 Home Inspectors, Safer Stronger North Somerset and Avon and Somerset Police, helped bring the sculpture to life.
This local initiative aims to amplify and preserve the Knife Angel's message long after the famous sculpture's departure from Weston-super-Mare at the end of May.
WTF Workshops' Char Smith said: "It was incredibly rewarding to work on an artist sculpture that gave back to the community."
Felix Rowberry added: "It was wonderful to work with these energetic young people and get to know them. A beacon is a powerful symbol of hope and guidance, particularly fitting for a seaside town like Weston-super-Mare.
"The words they selected wrap around the sculpture, and reflect the positive things they value, such as perseverance, joy, friendship, and forgiveness."
A ceremony took place recently to celebrate the students’ involvement in the creation of the sculpture, where they were presented with gifts and certificates.
The students participated in workshops at Alliance Homes’ Coleridge Road Community Garden and came up with the concept for the legacy sculpture.
Alliance Homes Community Growth Manager, Helen Wheelock, said: “The ‘Beacon of Hope’ is a community-led, lasting legacy of the Knife Angel’s visit to our town.
"It was inspiring to see these young students getting involved in creating this positive symbol, learning more about the profound impact of knife crime and helping to raise awareness in our communities.
“Huge thanks to all our partner organisations and businesses for helping us to make this happen – as well as to Voyage Learning Campus and all the students who took part.”
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