"Somebody"
“Somebody” – A Textile body created by Fleur Oakes and performance created by Rachel Warr
Somebody is a textile book representing a human body that has suffered a stabbing injury. It was created by artist Fleur Oakes over the course of 18 months. It is performed to the young people who then have the chance to interact with it and reflect on its deeper meaning of the lasting physical and psychological sequelae of knife violence.
Somebody
In an innovative fusion of art and educational outreach, the SHARP project introduces “SomeBody,” a groundbreaking work by Fleur Oakes, which serves as a stark portrayal of the consequences of knife violence. This artistic masterpiece, performed by the accomplished theatre director Rachel Warr, is a crucial educational tool in shedding light on the physical and emotional aftermath of knife attacks. Designed to resonate with young audiences, “SomeBody” is a compelling blend of storytelling and visual artistry, aiming to raise awareness and deter youth from engaging in knife-related violence.
Concept
This artistically crafted textile ‘body’ vividly portrays the profound physical and emotional aftermath of knife violence.
Storytelling
A dynamic performance of the book’s story unfolds, vividly illustrating the impact of knife violence to young audiences.
Activity
Participants select a page that resonates with them, capturing it in a photograph to extend the story through their own perspective.
SomeBody: A Journey Through the Impact of Knife Violence
SomeBody, an innovative and unique creation by Fleur Oakes, a master embroiderer and textile artist, transcends the conventional idea of a book. It’s a one-of-a-kind artifact crafted in the likeness of the human body, unfolding a poignant narrative about the aftermath of a knife attack. This exceptional piece doesn’t just detail the physical trauma but also delves deep into the emotional and psychological repercussions.
At the heart of the SHARP project’s educational initiative, SomeBody becomes a living story under the skilled performance of Rachel Warr, a renowned theatre director with a specialty in puppetry. Her captivating presentation brings the book’s narrative to life, creating an immersive experience for young audiences. The performance is more than just a display of artistic prowess; it’s a powerful tool that enables young people to vividly grasp the consequences and broader implications of knife possession and violence.
This interactive approach, combining visual art with performance, serves as a critical educational method in the SHARP project, driving home the stark realities of knife crime. The collaboration of Fleur Oakes and Rachel Warr in the SHARP initiative exemplifies how art can be a potent medium for social change and awareness, particularly in engaging with the younger generation on such a vital issue.
Student Pictures
Next Steps
In this session, in conjunction with charity partners The Prince’s Trust and The Change Foundation, young people explore their understanding of knife crime, reflect on prevention of knife crime, their own support networks and how these can be expanded. Resources providing access to community engagement and further support is made available to the young people.
Have more questions or want to get involved? Get in touch!