The National Anti-Bloodsports Monument

20Bloodsport is a term to define violent sports that directly inflict pain, injury and even death on animals – all in the name of entertainment for humans. From bull fighting to dog fighting, these sports are deadly and terrifying for the animals involved. Across the globe animals are being put through bloodshed, and perhaps when thinking of bloodsports we immediately associate it with other countries and “exotic” sports such as bull fighting, but surprisingly it is also found even closer to home than you might realise.

Why does this happen?

In the UK, bloodsports such as dog fighting, cock fighting and badger baiting are illegal, but are often still being carried out illegally and underground. From 2015 to 2018, a period of just four years, the RSPCA received 8000 reports of illegal dog fighting. Hunting wild mammals with dogs is another bloodsport that is illegal in England, Scotland and Wales, and has been since 2004. However, there are still countless reports of illegal fox hunting still going on today.

Why was this sculpture created?

Rightly named the ‘National Anti-Bloodsports Monument’, this sculpture was created to be a reminder to those who view it about the cruel abuse that humans inflict on innocent animals, for entertainment or as a nod to traditions and cultures. The sculpture was designed to be daring, evoking on the emotions of all who view it, with the aim to raise awareness and understanding behind animal blood sports.

What does it depict?

Depicting a bull mid-charge with head down and a back full of ‘banderillas’, as if wounded and exhausted from humiliation and blood loss, this sculpture highlights the cruelty of animal abuse for human entertainment. If you look closely into the bull’s eyes, you can see his pain and all those that stood before him.