‘The Knotted Gun’

By Carl Fredrik Reuterswärd (1985)

This sculpture, also known as ‘Non-Violence’, can be found in New York, and was created in memory of John Lennon to be seen as a symbol of world peace. It has been used and still is today as a way of protesting against gun violence. The bronze statue is successful as it has a very clear message that violence is not the answer.

The knotted barrel of the weapon is successful in creating a visual image within the audience of someone physically bending the metal to prevent violence. Reuterswärd controlled the bronze impeccably to create a very realistic piece of art that will never date. It was created in direct response to the death of John Lennon after he was shot outside his home. Reuterswärd had political influence as it was placed outside the United Nations building in New York as a very public statement against gun violence. With the issue of gun violence being highlighted regularly, this permanent structure is a way of reminding people that peace can exist. Even after more than 30 years the sculpture itself has become a symbol by global ambassadors for world peace. This in itself, highlights how successful simplicity can be when it comes to big political and social debates.