How creative practice strengthens children's learning in literacy, maths, science and beyond.

Art Sparking a Movement for Social Change. The arrival of the Knife Angel in Slough wasn’t just the appearance of a striking sculpture; it was a catalyst for crucial conversations and a powerful symbol of our community’s united stand against violence. Here at The Art Classes Group, we were deeply honoured to play a role in this vital initiative, using art to amplify the urgent message of social change that the Angel represents.

A striking image of the Knife Angel during its visit to Slough. A full shot of the  sculpture in situ at Arbour Park.)

The Knife Angel, a towering 27ft figure crafted by Alfie Bradley from over 100,000  confiscated knives, served as a stark reminder of the devastating impact of knife crime.  Its presence in Slough, part of a nationwide tour, was a focal point for a month of action involving Thames Valley Police, Slough Borough Council, the Police and Crime  Commissioner for the Thames Valley, Matthew Barber, and numerous community  organisations. The aim was clear: to bring people together, raise awareness, and promote  a future free from violence. 

Matthew Barber, the Police and Crime Commissioner for Thames Valley, highlighted the  importance of the Angel’s visit, stating, “The Knife Angel reminds us of the devastating  impact of violence and aggression and brings partners and the community together with  a commitment to tackle it.” This sentiment was echoed across the community, with  thousands visiting the sculpture and engaging with the programmes on offer. 

A Picture of the Lauch “Knife Angel – Tags Restoration Project” at Arbour Park Stadium Slough

A picture of the “Tags Restoration Project” created by The Art Classes Group, showcasing the messages of hope

Inspired by the profound impact of the Knife Angel and the hundreds of personal messages left on tags by visitors, The Art Classes Group embarked on the “Tags Restoration Project.” This initiative, supported by Matthew Barber’s Partnerships Fund, saw our local artists transform these heartfelt pledges into a new, lasting 3D art installation. This piece serves as an enduring testament to Slough’s collective desire for
change and continues to tour locally, furthering the conversation around knife crime prevention.

Ovais Shamsuddin from The Art Classes Group explained the vision behind the project: “When we started the Knife Angel art installation, we wanted to create a meaningful way to address the issue of knife crime and promote social change… The core of the installation consists of a collection of tags with messages from Slough communities, and a series of paintings that create a powerful tribute to the original Knife Angel sculpture.”

Art Classes Group Exhibition 2023 “Knife Angel – Tags Restoration Project” at Observatory Shopping Centre Slough. Image from left to right( Ovais Shamsuddin – Executive Director Art Classes Group, Marinela Caldarus – Artistic Director Art Classes Group, Tan Dhesi – MP Slough, Amjad Abbasi (Slough Councillor, Chris Shaw – Centre Manager Observatory Shopping Centre, Dr Devsi – Board Advisory Art Classes Group, Roma Battye – Board Advisory Art Classes Group.

The ripple effect of the Knife Angel’s visit continues to spread. Educational initiatives like the “Stay True to You” campaign, supported by Thames Valley Police and the Thames Valley Violence Prevention Partnership, are empowering young people to make positive choices. Slough Borough Council has also emphasised the crucial role of education, highlighting how projects in schools, such as the “Tree of Hope” mural at The Langley Academy (another project Art Classes Group was proud to be involved with, using pledges from students), are keeping the dialogue alive and fostering a culture of safety. As Councillor Ishrat Shah, lead member for equalities, public health and public protection at Slough Borough Council, remarked, “This education and early engagement work is hugely important… I am pleased the legacy of the Knife Angel is continuing.”

The Knife Angel’s time in Slough may have concluded, but its legacy is very much alive. It  has ignited a renewed commitment within our community to tackle violence through  education, art, and collaboration.  

The Art Classes Group is proud to be part of this ongoing journey, using the power of  creativity to foster important discussions and contribute to a safer, more positive future  for Slough and surrounding area. 

At Langley Academy Secondary School – Participation in “Tree of Hope” Project by  Year Group (Total = 850 Student

At Beechwood Secondary School – Participation in “Tree of Hope” Project by Year Group 7, 8, 9.

At Waingels Secondary School – Participation in “Tree of Hope” Project by Year Group 7, 8, 9.

Together, we can continue to make a difference.