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War zone sexual violence sculpture completed

Rebecca Hawkins A close up of the head of the statue in a workshopRebecca Hawkins
The work pays tribute to victims of sexual violence in conflicts around the world

A statue dedicated to victims of sexual violence in conflicts across the world is set to be moved from the Hampshire foundry where it was cast.

Andover-based artist Rebecca Hawkins created the bronze work, entitled Petrified Survivors, as part of a project involving more than 20 groups in conflict zones around the world.

The collaborating organisations said it was aimed at "breaking the silence and stigma" over sexual violence in conflicts, including rape, forced prostitution and slavery.

It its due to be shipped to the Netherlands where it will be officially unveiled next month.

Artist Rebecca Hawkins, wearing a grey top, standing in her studio alongside the sculpture
Artist Rebecca Hawkins created the violence entitled Petrified Survivors

The sculpture was designed and created during a three-year process that included gathering stories and testimonies from survivors and human rights organisations in more than 30 countries across the world.

They included Nadia's Initiative, The Mukwege Foundation, the Justice for Lai Dai Han Campaign.

The 2m-tall sculpture depicts a petrified woman with an infant strapped to her back, ensnared by strangler figs and with her hands tied behind her.

Petrified Survivors A wide view showing the full sculpture being created in the art studioPetrified Survivors
The 2m-high sculpture was created at a foundry in Andover

The groups involved said it reflected the "overwhelming fear" experienced by victims of sexual violence.

"The sculpture not only creates a space for remembrance and reflection, but also demonstrates commitment to recognising survivors' resilience."

Ms Hawkins explained there were symbols from each survivor group involved in the project tied into the vines of the sculpture.

"It talks for the survivors about what has given them their strength and their resilience to deal with this issue," she added.

Petrified Survivors is due to be moved to the British ambassador's residence in the Hague where it will be officially be unveiled.

The sculpture will then travel to be displayed at other sites in Europe.

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