Bronson - the Newcastle connection
A Newcastle man is hoping a new book will show a completely different side to "the most dangerous man in Britain".
Charles Bronson is one of the highest-profile criminals in Britain and has been featured in books, interviews, and studies in prison reform and treatment. In his own words: "I'm a nice guy, but sometimes I lose all my senses and become nasty. That doesn't make me evil, just confused."
In 2008 Tom Hardy portrayed him in a movie loosely based on Bronson's life.
In 2014 Bronson changed his name to Charles Salvador in a mark of respect to one of his favourite artists, Salvador DalÃ, and to distance himself from his existing reputation.
The Charles Salvador Art Foundation was founded to promote his artwork and "help those in positions even less fortunate than his own" to participate in art.
And that's where Steve Wraith comes in, Newcastle man Steve has been in contact with Bronson/Salvador over the years and has built up a collection of art work from the man inside.
Together they've now released a new book - "Art Attack - Charlie's Art & Friends" by Charles Salvador.
The 220 page book showcases artwork by 'The artist formerly known as Bronson' as well as a great selection of photos of his supporters across the world.
Each section is introduced by Charlie in his own words.
Steve Wraith says:
"I've known Charlie on and off for many years, we've worked together in the past on various things and he is totally misunderstood. With his art people are really starting to see a different side of him, a side I've known existed for a long time, this new art book is a way of introducing Charles Salvador to the wider world in the hope that people won't just judge him on his past"
You can find out more information about the book here - http://thesayers.bigcartel.com/product/art-attack-charlie-s-art-friends-by-charles-salvador