Pixel art makes loan shark warning
THE dangers of loan sharks are the topic of a stained glass pixel art project being launched at Norton Priory in Runcorn.
Digital Arts Box CIC has teamed up with the England Illegal Money Lending Team (IMLT) and Cheshire Constabulary to develop the exhibition to raise awareness of the risks of illicit lenders, how to spot the warning signs and what support is available.
The IMLT is a national agency that investigates and prosecutes loan sharks across England, as well as providing support for borrowers and public information campaigns.
Throughout 2021 Digital Arts Box visited St Berteline’s, St Mary’s, St Augustine’s, Astmoor, and Halton Lodge primary schools in Runcorn, along with the Blue Rooms art group at Norton Priory, in addition to holding workshops for more than 200 pupils.
During the visits the Digital Arts Box team, alongside the IMLT and Cheshire Police, discussed the different types of illegal money lenders, how they operate, and where to turn for help should a young person suspect somebody they know might be in contact with one.
Students taking part then learned the fundamentals of creating pixel art so they could create a unique, loan shark-themed pixel artwork.
The completed artwork spans nine, floor-to-ceiling, stained glass windows within the atrium of Norton Priory’s main building.
Seven windows feature more than 230 individual pieces of art created by Halton youngsters and professional graphic artists.
Its official unveiling was scheduled to take place from noon-2pm on Saturday, February 26.
A spokeswoman for the IMLT, which has led the prosecutions of loan sharks over the last decade, said: “Loan sharks come in many guises - they could be a regular from the local pub, a parent in the school playground or a friend of a friend.
“The artwork represents seven types of loan sharks to highlight the important message that anyone could be a loan shark and to be aware of the signs.”
The launch event is free and visitors can take part in activities such as making pin-badges and pixel art.
Anyone with concerns about illegal money lending can call the Stop Loan Sharks 24-seven helpline in confidence on 0300 555 2222 or access support online at www.stoploansharks.co.uk.
Live Chat is available on the website between 9am and 5pm, Monday to Friday.