Sunderland reacts to 'beautiful' new Connor Brown artwork by Frank Styles

Connor Brown, 18, sadly died after being fatally stabbed on a night out in Sunderland in February of 2019 and almost one year on, he has been remembered in the form of artwork by Frank Styles, a local spray paint artist, who graduated in fine art from the University of Sunderland.

On the outside wall of Gatsby in Sunderland city centre, a bold red symbol shows Connor’s initials in a heart shaped design in the hopes of creating a reminder of the dangers of knife crime in the city.

Tanya Brown, Connor’s mum, told the Echo that she is thrilled with the outcome of Frank’s work.

Now, Sunderland residents have joined in sharing their messages in support of the symbol – this is what you said about the artwork.

Kevin Ackroyd said: “It's class. God bless Connor. Make a great tattoo.”

Irene Anne Franciosi commented: “Ah how beautiful and so poignant. I hope it helps stop other needless murders! God bless Connor!”

Joanne Emmerson called the art “absolutely beautiful," Joanne Bolton added that it is “beautiful” and “moving” while Lynne Day hailed it as “amazing.”

Joanne Davison added: “Its beautiful. I hope it works and stops another family suffering.”

Joanne Wright said: “Amazing work. RIP Connor.”

Neil Fraser praised Frank Styles saying: “You’re a credit to the North East mate! Lovely sentiment this.”

Michelle Lundy commented: “Beautiful tribute for a beautiful boy.”

Micky Allan said: “RIP Connor. Well done Frank Styles. Great art work mate.”

Vicky Cullen commented: “Very touching tribute on the much loved Connor. Hope this sets a remind of the lovely boy he was and the devastation knife crime caused his family. And hopefully make people think twice about carrying an awful weapon. RIP Connor.”

Karl Dylan said: “Love it.”

Bernie Sloanes added: “Amazing tribute and Linda Gibson called the mural “beautiful.”

Joanne Green said: “What a beautiful tribute.”

Andy Trilsbach described the gesture as “the Mackem way.”