Express & Star

Artist’s rough-sleeping snowmen raise awareness of homelessness

Chris Newson used to be homeless himself.

Published
(Chris Newson)

A formerly homeless artist has shone a light on the issue by building snowmen living rough on the streets.

Chris Newson is normally a painter but made the sculptures from the snow brought by the wintry conditions this week outside his gallery and framing shop in Leiston, Suffolk.

The snowmen outside the shop
(Chris Newson)

“I did it to publicise the shop,” Chris told the Press Association. “Called one photo Sleeping Rough and the rest is history.

“Not the kind of weather to get framing done or buy pictures.

“I am glad my four snowmen have raised awareness of homelessness.”

Chris’s snowmen have been shared thousands of times on social media and have received a warm reception.

“I was homeless once and I know how hard it is,” Chris told the I. “They’ve got to sit outside in the weather now and look for a night shelter.

“There’s homeless people in this country and it’s quite disgusting how they’re overlooked.

“There’s just no-one there to help them.”

Chris' sculptures up close
(Chris Newson)

If you see someone sleeping rough in the cold in your area and want to help, consider contacting StreetLink to let local outreach workers know where you’ve seen them and they can help.

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