In St Peter’s Square, an “army” of survivors defiantly stare, unafraid to meet the eyes of passers-by. They are only portraits, of course, but their presence is powerful and commands attention - from the city, and from the people in it.
It’s these portraits, and the extraordinary people behind them, that the Duchess of Cornwall came to visit at Manchester Central Library this morning, Tuesday, May 5.
The portraits are part of the ‘I Am’ project, shot by acclaimed photographer Allie Crewe and commissioned by SICK! Festival, which are set to be displayed in Metrolink stations across Greater Manchester throughout May. They feature people who have experienced Intimate Partner Violence (IPV) in their lifetimes, and who are speaking out to raise awareness of the impact of all different types of domestic abuse.