Standing an awe-inspiring 27 feet tall, the Knife Angel sculpture became a centrepiece of creativity and reflection during its visit to the City in July. The monument, a powerful symbol against knife crime, sparked the imagination of all who encountered it.
As part of its official visit, the public were invited to channel their inner photographers. With cameras and phones in hand, participants captured the Angel through their unique perspectives, creating a truly personal connection with the artwork.
The response was remarkable, with over 50 stunning submissions received for the photography competition. Judging these entries fell to a panel of community volunteers who had supported the Angel’s visit, offering a warm welcome to visitors. The panel were blown away by the originality and emotion conveyed in the images.
John Simmons, Chair of Southend Street Pastors, shared his experience:
“Following the involvement of the Southend Street Pastors with the Knife Angel, particularly our ‘Day of Reflection’ on Sunday afternoons, I was honoured to judge this extraordinary set of photos. The range of creative approaches and the high quality made for a long, spirited debate over every image. In the end, the winners captured the Angel’s pathos, its impact, and its deep connection to its surroundings.”
Celebrating the Winners
- First Place: Francisco Fernandez
Francisco’s powerful photograph captured the Angel’s haunting expression, embodying the sorrow and consequences of knife crime. The judges praised the image for its emotional depth and powerful message. Francisco received a voucher for a day or night out for four at Caddies Crazy Golf in Southend. - Second Place: Alexandra Popica
Alexandra’s entry brilliantly framed the Angel surrounded by white ribbons and wooden hearts bearing messages of hope, grief, and inspiration. The judges noted how this image told the story of Southend’s connection to the Knife Angel. Alexandra was awarded a voucher for Utopia Coffee Lounge. - Third Place: Julie Ann Stevens
Julie Ann’s submission stood out for its composition and focus, highlighting the Angel’s strength and grace while subtly softening the focus on its face. She was also awarded a voucher for Utopia Coffee Lounge.
Avril Richards from Southend Prayer Pastors reflected on the judging process:
“It’s been a great privilege to be involved. These images breathe life into the sadness and confusion caused by knife crime, showing how we can all play a part in prevention.”
A Legacy of Awareness
Cllr Martin Terry, Cabinet Member for Community Safety, expressed his gratitude:
“Thank you to everyone who entered the competition. Your photos capture the anguish and heartbreak of knife violence while preserving the memory of the Knife Angel’s visit and its vital message. Congratulations to the winners—your work truly reflects the monument’s profound meaning.”
A special thanks to Caddies Southend and Utopia Coffee Lounge for generously donating the prizes and supporting this meaningful competition. Together, the Knife Angel’s visit leaves a legacy of awareness and hope for a safer future.