(1965 – ) and Yomi Mambu
Now part of the family support centre Chrysalis, Erinma works as part of an inspirational network of community leaders and volunteers active across south Manchester, working towards a socially inclusive community.
The sculpture – a one and a half life-sized bust – is made from 50 lethal firearms seized by police or surrendered during gun amnesties. The weapons were melted down by Manchester-based artists’ collective ‘Guns to Goods’ and turned into the sculpture by artist Karen Lyons.
When I pay a visit, the Town Hall is closed for refurbishment, but some helpful Mancunians point me in the direction of the Central Library where she is temporarily displayed.
By chance, I stumble across another bust temporarily housed here. Sierra Leone born Yomi Mambu, was the first Black person born outside of the UK to hold the position of Lord Mayor of Manchester. Yomi served as one of the first Black councillors of the city before her stint as Lord Mayor 1989-1990. Other than these details I struggle to find out much more about her.
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