Angel statue in Perth is a stark reminder of those lost to knife crime

An angel statue in Perth has been unveiled as a poignant reminder of the lives lost to knife crime. The 27-foot high statue, known as the Knife Angel, is made up of 100,000 blades that were seized to highlight the dangers of knife crime. Situated outside Perth Museum on King Edward Street, the statue will be on display throughout December. In addition, a Book of Reflection will be available for visitors to sign in memory of victims of knife crime.

The unveiling of the Knife Angel was particularly emotional for Kerry Burgess, the mother of Cammy Rae, a 20-year-old victim of knife crime in Perth. She described the statue as a powerful reminder and praised Perth and Kinross Council for bringing attention to the issue. Burgess expressed hope that the statue would deter individuals from carrying knives, emphasizing that the consequences of such actions are devastating.

Perth and Kinross schools will be visiting the Knife Angel in December for educational projects on violence and knife crime. This marks the first time the statue, created by the British Ironwork Centre, has been displayed in Scotland. Grant Laing, the leader of Perth and Kinross Council, highlighted the importance of reflecting on the history behind each of the 100,000 blades used in the statue, each representing a tragic story of violence.

The Knife Angel serves as a stark reminder of the social costs associated with knife crime and the impact it has on families and communities. Alfie Bradley, the artist behind the statue, completed the sculpture in 2018 with the aim of raising awareness about the consequences of violent behaviour. The installation ceremony in Perth was met with solemn reflection and a call to action for creating a safer society.

The unveiling of the Knife Angel in Perth comes following the sentencing of Cammy Rae’s killer, Caleb Ferguson, to life imprisonment. The statue has already sparked discussions and generated awareness within the community. Provost Xander McDade of Perth and Kinross remarked on the statue’s ability to provoke thought and inspire collective efforts towards a more compassionate society.

In conclusion, the presence of the Knife Angel in Perth stands as a symbol of remembrance, reflection, and advocacy against knife crime. As communities unite in acknowledging the tragedies caused by such violence, the hope is that this powerful artwork will continue to encourage dialogue and action towards a safer future for all.