Non-Violence Project North America to Host Free Student Workshop at National Sawdust
The event invites middle and high school students to reimagine the iconic Knotted Gun, with one design selected for permanent installation.
On Saturday, April 25, The Non-Violence Project North America Foundation (NVPNA), in partnership with National Sawdust, will host a free, hands-on creative workshop for middle and high school students at the Williamsburg-based performance and arts space. The program marks an early step in the organization's efforts to build a broader cultural presence across the United States and Canada.
At the center of the workshop is the Knotted Gun, one of the most widely recognized symbols of non-violence. Created in 1980 by Swedish artist Carl Fredrik Reuterswärd in memory of his friend John Lennon, the sculpture, a revolver with its barrel tied in a knot, has been installed in prominent public spaces around the world, including the United Nations Headquarters in New York.
Students ages 12 and up will be invited to reinterpret the Knotted Gun through a shared visual template, each bringing their own perspective to a singular, globally recognized form. One design will be selected and developed into a permanent installation at National Sawdust, offering a young New York artist the opportunity to contribute a lasting work to a major cultural venue. All materials will be provided, and participation is free with RSVP.
The initiative builds on more than three decades of global impact. The Non-Violence Project Foundation (NVPF), the Swiss-based nonprofit behind the program, has reached over 10 million young people across 35 countries through education focused on conflict resolution, anti-bullying, mental health, and leadership development. At a time when more than one billion children worldwide are affected by violence, the organization's work is focused on early, preventative engagement. In 2014, the organization was recognized by President Barack Obama as a leading youth education initiative.
The April 25 program will feature New York-based muralist and sculptor Jenna Morello, an NVPNA Ambassador, who will unveil her own interpretation of the Knotted Gun and guide students through the creative process. The event will also include live performances by Brooklyn artist and host of the Webby Award winning Sing for Science podcast Matt Whyte, musician Alanna Rose, and remarks by Co-Founder Rolf Skjoldebrand.
EVENT DETAILS:
The workshop will take place at National Sawdust, located at 80 N. 6th Street in Williamsburg, Brooklyn, on Saturday, April 25, 2026. Doors open at 10:00 AM, with the program beginning at 10:30 AM. The event is free and open to middle and high school students ages 12 and up.
Advance RSVP is required at https://www.nationalsawdust.org/event/the-non-violence-project-presents-a-creative-workshop-for-peace-non-violence.
National Sawdust is accessible via the L train to Bedford Avenue and the G train to Metropolitan Avenue.
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