Colmore Life Autumn/Winter 2023 by Colmore Life

SA IT’ S! YE

More than just business...

E SE

A Day in the District The Lowdown Movers & Shakers Art & Culture

G PA

AUTUMN/ WINTER 2023

In this issue:

Public art across the District: Special edition with trail map

AUTUMN 2023 1 colmorebusinessdistrict.com

Welcome

to the Autumn 2023 edition of Colmore Life. You’re reading this edition of Colmore Life magazine hot on the heels of Colmore BID’s BID4 ballot. We asked our levy-paying businesses to vote for a fourth term of Colmore Business District between 2024-2029 and I’m thrilled that the result was a ‘yes’ in favour of more Colmore. Thank you so much for this. It means so much to the Colmore BID team to receive your backing in such a resounding fashion. One of the key pillars of BID4 is to make our Business District an area that celebrates art, culture and our fascinating history and heritage. Our new Art Trail map is our first project connected to this – find out more and follow the map on Pages 16-19. Celebrating and nurturing art in the District will continue throughout BID4 as we shine a light on the organisations that attract visitors from across the globe for their arts appeal. Birmingham Cathedral’s Divine Beauty project, which is cleaning and restoring Edward Burne-Jones’ priceless stained-glass windows, is now complete and you can find out more on Pages 6 and 7. To be sensitively conserving such a delicate work of art for future generations is an incredible achievement and I must finish my welcome note by praising and congratulating the cathedral and restoration teams for their painstaking work. I hope you enjoy this edition of Colmore Life and I’ll see you on my travels across the District this Christmas and New Year. MICHELE WILBY, CEO, COLMORE BID

AUTUMN 2023

THE BID TEAM Michele Wilby Chief Executive Officer Jonathan Bryce Operations Manager Katy Paddock Special Projects Executive Kelsey Dwyer Events Executive Paul Street Strategic Projects Officer Mike Mounfield Projects Manager

NEW COLMORE BID WORKING GROUP

Alex Nicholson-Evans City Curator Claire Lishman Media and PR Consultant Philip Singleton Consultant Lee Stirrup Database Officer Ruth Thompson Finance Director Ali Abbas Rangwala Bookkeeper John-Jo Von Johnson Street Operations Manager Ryan Boothe Project Support James Crooks Security Officer Zack Palmer Security Officer

Following on from the success of the Welcome to Birmingham events, Colmore BID has introduced a new working group. This working group is focusing on supporting the District’s new professionals. To find out more please email Kelsey.dwyer@ colmorebid.co.uk

Dimitri Mitropoulos Security Officer Nicole Panayiotou Business Liaison Executive Peter Charalambous District Cleaner CONTACT Colmore BID, 37a Waterloo St, Birmingham B2 5TJ info@colmorebid.co.uk colmorebusinessdistrict.com We’re also on:

FOR COLMORE LIFE MAGAZINE Stacey Barnfield Editor Designed and produced for Colmore BID by: Edwin Ellis Creative Media edwinelliscreativemedia.com Colmore Life magazine is printed on environmentally, socially and economically viable paper stock certified by FSC.

CALL FOR DIVERSITY FEEDBACK Equality, diversity and inclusion is extremely important to Colmore BID and the events team wants to learn more about different cultural celebrations in and around the District. Colmore BID Events Executive, Kelsey Dwyer, said: “We would love to hear from you to understand what events are important to you and how they are celebrated.” If you have any feedback, advice or want to highlight a special date please email Kelsey.dwyer @colmorebid.co.uk

DID YOU KNOW? Birmingham Cathedral’s sell-out immersive light and sound experience ‘Divine Beauty at Night’, by Luxmuralis, will return in January 2024. Find out more on Pages 26 & 27

A DAY IN THE DISTRICT

IN THE BUSINESS DISTRICT FOR A MEETING? WHY NOT MAKE A DAY OF IT? 1 BREAKFAST

2 TO THE SHOPS

3 SEE THE SIGHTS

4 ME TIME

DISHOOM

CLARENDON FINE ART

F1 ARCADE

Begin your day at the fantastic Dishoom at Chamberlain Square with bacon naan roll, a Kejriwal or a Big Bombay, washed down with a delicious Dishoom chai.

Clarendon Fine Art offers a range of original paintings and sculptures, bringing the finest artwork from around the world to a discerning audience of art lovers.

CHRISTMAS IN CATHEDRAL SQUARE

One Chamberlain Square, Birmingham

Five weeks of fantastic festive West Midlands traders, with live music and street entertainment against the backdrop of glorious Birmingham Cathedral.

The District’s newest attraction is the perfect place to have fun with friends. F1 Arcade features 53 full-motion racing simulators and great food and drink to boot. See Page 8 for details.

Cathedral Grounds, Colmore Row (Nov 15-Dec 17)

Chamberlain Square (From mid November 2023 – visit f1arcade.com for dates)

9 Colmore Row, Snow Hill Station Square

LI V ER Y

COLMORE CIRCUS

LL ST

5 H

4 WA

O RL

5 DINNER

6 ONE FOR THE ROAD

ASHA’S

ORELLE

Dine like a movie star at the fantastic Asha’s. It’s where Tom Cruise tasted a tikka masala (or two) during his time in Birmingham filming Mission Impossible 7.

Treat yourself to a Champagne cocktail – Remy Martin VSOP, Brown Sugar, Angostura Bitters, Lanson Champagne Brut – with spectacular night time views across Birmingham and beyond.

12-22 Newhall Street

103 Colmore Row

AUTUMN 2023

Lowdown

LATEST NEWS FROM THE DISTRICT

Colmore BID secures 4th term after successful member ballot 98% YES VOTES FOR 2024-2029 PROPOSAL Colmore BID has been successful in its BID4 Business Plan proposal for 2024 to 2029, having won with 98% yes votes. The campaigning began back in January 2023 as the BID engaged closely with the local business community, seeking valuable feedback through the consultation period. Once the ballot opened on 28 September, eligible voters from within the Birmingham District had a month to cast their votes before the ballot closed for counting on 26 October. Thanks to the successful result, Colmore BID’s fourth term will commence on 1 April 2024 and will enable the BID to deliver its ambitious vision for the area, with local businesses investing over £7.5 million over five years. Plans include the redevelopment of Livery Street Subway, the replanting of Colmore Square to add biodiversity to the area, and a city-wide immersive light festival to drive footfall and trade to Birmingham. To make the BID’s commitments a reality, eligible businesses in the District pay a levy which funds the BID’s project pot. The notfor-profit organisation is led by a Board of local businesses and stakeholders such as the police, local councillors, and Transport for West Midlands. To help drive this mission forward in the new term, Colmore BID has made two new key appointments to their team. Alex Nicholson-Evans joins the BID two days a week as City Curator and has the remit to work across Birmingham city centre to develop and commission new and exciting cultural projects and events. Alex has spent the last ten years working in arts, heritage, tourism, and events. She is best known as the Founder and Director of Living For The Weekend, the

AUTUMN 2023

company behind city-wide festivals such as Birmingham Cocktail Weekend and Birmingham Restaurant Festival. Alex will work closely with the other city centre BIDs, Birmingham City Council and locally based creative practitioners and artists to deliver these projects. Claire Lishman also joins the BID on a parttime basis as Media and PR consultant. Claire has worked in Birmingham for the last 13 years as both a freelance PR consultant and an in-house Press Manager for organisations such as Birmingham Royal Ballet, B:Music (the music charity responsible for Town Hall and Symphony Hall), Elmhurst Ballet School, and Michelin-starred chef and restaurateur Glynn Purnell. While Colmore BID’s fourth term starts on 1 April 2024, these two new roles start with immediate effect to place the BID in the best possible position to truly hit the ground running on the exciting five years ahead. For more information visit www.colmorebusinessdistrict.com

Pictured: Colmore Business District Picture: Stacey Barnfield

A THANK YOU FROM THE BID CHAIR, NICOLA I am thrilled to start this edition of Colmore Life with a HUGE THANK YOU to our levy payers for once again delivering a resounding YES to the Colmore BID going into a fourth term; the support has been fantastic with 46% turnout and a very convincing 98% in favour. On behalf of my board and the entire BID team, I cannot thank you enough for your support. Our fourth term promises to be even more sophisticated than those gone by, with meaningful project delivery around last mile deliveries, enhanced security and community support, even greater collaboration with external partners, and most excitingly, our City Curator role. You can learn more about our City Curator in the next issue, as we will feature a full interview. There’s much work to be done, but you’ll know by now that challenges don’t scare us, they revitalise us! The city of Birmingham is an incredible place for all, but most importantly, for our thriving businesses. We will continue to support, represent and enliven your experiences. I look forward to meeting many of you over the coming months and years at our many events, or perhaps just walking down the streets of the city. NICOLA FLEET-MILNE, CHAIR, COLMORE BID

A Colmore Christmas Christmas in Cathedral Square is returning between 15th November until 17th December 2023. Over five weeks Colmore BID has invited West Midlands traders to sell unique gifts, food and drink, with live music and street entertainment. The market will also feature the helter skelter Christmas bar and Pigeon in the Park pop-up pub. Christmas in Cathedral Square is a

collaboration between Colmore BID, Birmingham City Council, Danter Attractions and St Philips Cathedral. From fine wines and fried chicken to macaroons and craft beer, Christmas at Cathedral Square brings together the best tastes from Birmingham and beyond. A wide range of cuisines are represented at this year’s Christmas markets, and there are also a number

of excellent restaurants in the local area if you’re looking for a sit-down meal to break up the festivities. Christmas in Cathedral Square is just one of a number of festive family attractions for winter 2023 with the return of the Frankfurt Christmas Market, a Wild in Art festive sculpture trail, Ice Skate and The Big Wheel in Centenary Square and the Jewellery Quarter Window Trail.

WHO’S WHO AT CHRISTMAS IN CATHEDRAL SQUARE TRADER NAME

TRADER DATES

TRADING

Summer and Silver Burning Barn Rum Miss Macaroon Wicked Cookies IKIGAI Glassy Silver Funny Brummie Pictures Glass Art Designs Steve Woodhams Art Birmingham Balti Bowl Co Iuvo Skincare Great British Fudge Bus Flower Master Cathedral Charity Marshall&Co Cameler Spice Co Cote Brasserie West Midlands Distillery Vicki Marks Jewellery Black Pounds Project The Aegean Touch Spreading Flamingo Love Ugne Makes 100 Views of Birmingham Bodacious Products YUM Sweet Treats Body Bangle Original Jewelnique Treasures Senne. Natroma Blissful Batter

Full Period Jewellery Full Period Gifts Full Period Sweet Treats Full Period Sweet Treats Full Period Gifts Full Period Jewellery Full Period Gifts Full Period Gifts Full Period Gifts Full Period Gifts Full Period Beauty Full Period Sweet Treats Full Period Florist All Dates (excl 16th-21st) Charity Week 1 Sweet Treats Week 1 & 2 Food Gifts Week 1 Gifts Week 1 & 2 Gifts Week 1 & 3 Jewellery Week 1, 2 & 4 Charity Week 1 Gifts Week 1 Gifts Week 1 Gifts Week 1 & 2 Gifts Week 2 Gifts Week 1, 2 & 3 Sweet Treats Week 2 Jewellery Week 2, 4 & 5 Jewellery Week 2 Gifts Week 1, 2 & 3 Gifts week 2 Sweet Treats

Wildjac Week 3, 4 & 5 Copper Beech Brewing Co Week 3 The 6am Club Week 3 Aston University Week 3 & 4 JW Craft Studio Week 3 Wood Reinvented Week 3 & 4 Fire Formed & Little Moo Studio Week 3 & 4 Pomella UK Week 4 Beckfords Rum Week 4 Lilliput Arts & Crafts Week 4 & 5 Lisa Lou Week 4 & 5 Button Families Gifts & Keepsakes Week 5 Spirit of Birmingham Week 5 Let It Bee Ltd Week 5 Juju Candles Week 5 Military chef Ltd Week 5 Chock Shop Week 5

Gifts Gifts Gifts Gifts Gifts Gifts Gifts Gifts Gifts Gifts Gifts Gifts Gifts Gifts Gifts Sweet Treats Sweet Treats

FOOD & DRINK Gaucho Chatty Patty Fried Chicken Cathedral Carvery Donut Shack Street Food Mumbai Grill Fullwood Pizza The HY Van Marshmallow Stand Vagabond Pigeon in the Park Babs Tap Helter Skelter Bar Bar Spot

Full Period Full Period Full Period Full Period Full Period Full Period Full Period Full Period Full Period Full Period Full Period Full Period Full Period Full Period

Food Food Food Food Food Food Food Hot Drinks Food Bar Bar Bar Bar Bar

MARKET DATES: Week 1: 15th-19th November Week 2: 20th-26th November Week 3: 27th Nov-3rd December Week 4: 4th-10th December Week 5: 11th-17th December

AUTUMN 2023

The Lowdown

Restored glass is Cathedral’s Christmas gift to Birmingham EDWARD BURNE-JONES’ WONDERFUL WINDOWS ARE PAINSTAKINGLY CLEANED Birmingham Cathedral is home to four of the finest stained-glass windows in the world, and they have now been restored to their former glory, thanks to a major grant from the National Lottery Heritage Fund. Painstakingly conserved over the last eight months, as part of the Divine Beauty Project, panels of pink and gold, rich reds and cobalt blue glow as sunlight shines through the windows, illuminating crowds of angels, sheep, Christ and Mary – all designed by Edward Burne-Jones. Birmingham-born Burne-Jones never had any intention of being an artist, much like his friend William Morris. Meeting in Oxford, where they both studied divinity, both young men originally intended to enter the church. However, they soon found that art was a better vehicle for them to express their ideas about theology, romantic literature, myths and legends. Together with a small group of BurneJones’ friends from Birmingham, known as the Birmingham Set, they formed a society, which they called “The Brotherhood”. Influenced by an earlier group of painters, The Pre-Raphaelites, they advocated for a return to the sincerity of subject and style found in an earlier age, pre-Raphael. Adopting their approach, Burne-Jones brought imaginary worlds to life in fairy tale paintings, featuring knights, princes and sleeping beauties. Religious iconography was another recurring theme in his paintings, including the largest watercolour in the world, the ‘Star of Bethlehem’ (c.1885–1890), which depicts the Adoration of the Magi before patterns of flowering plants. As his works became more ornamental, Burne-Jones grew

AUTUMN 2023

increasingly interested in the decorative arts. In 1861, he joined William Morris’ new design firm of Morris, Marshall, Faulkner & Co. (reorganised as Morris & Company in 1875), as their leading figure designer for stained glass, working with his friend on commissions across the world. One of the greatest and final collaborations between Burne-Jones and Morris was the Birmingham Cathedral windows, each showing a well-known scene from the life of Christ: The Nativity, The Ascension, The Crucifixion, and The Last Judgement. As Burne-Jones said, through this major commission, they were “making God manifest”, with full realisation of his religious iconography. Installed between 1885 and 1887, the windows are defined by Burne-Jones’ painterly designs and Pre-Raphaelite-styled figures who gaze upwards, inviting viewers to do the same.

But a closer look also shows the hand of Morris – the figures are dressed in botanical-patterned drapery. It is the recent cleaning of the windows which has revealed such intricacy, including the hand-painted decoration of Christ’s loin cloth, which looks like a Morris & Co fabric. Not obvious before, this exquisite level of detail has been “a real revelation” for the conservators from Holy Well Glass. Director Jack Clare

says that it has been “a real treat to work on the Divine Beauty Project”, which has concluded with amazing results. As he says, there is “a real aesthetic difference and glow” to the windows, which have been on quite a journey, down to the company’s family-run workshop in Somerset and back. Over the course of 500 days, his expert team have cleaned, repaired and restored more than 20 panels – using specialist materials, as well as cotton wool swabs – before re-installing them in the cathedral. They have also replaced the old protective grilles on the building, to improve both protection and the view of the windows from the outside. This extensive conservation has newly uncovered layers of construction, including the unusual double layering of glass across several areas of the windows. Mary’s blue robes, as well as the red fabrics in The Crucifixion, aren’t flat but built up with various shades,

‘It is only through the cleaning and conservation that the windows have “given up some of their secrets”’ Divine Beauty Project Manager, Rhian Tritton

bringing an intensity of colour, depth and perspective to the scenes. While an artist would typically present the stained-glass maker with watercolours, directing the use of colour, the recent conservation has unearthed an unusually collaborative manner of working between BurneJones and Morris who were at the height of their powers. Having spent 40 years as creative partners by this time, it’s

evident that Burne-Jones trusted Morris, a supreme colourist, to choose the palette in his studio. They would then have stood the panels up in the churchyard, installed them in the cathedral, and added more layers of colour where necessary – with exceptional results. It is only through the cleaning and conservation that the windows have “given up some of their secrets,” says Divine Beauty Project Manager, Rhian Tritton. In time for Christmas, when the scaffolding has finally been removed, audiences will be given that “big reveal, a wow moment,” says Jack Clare. Among the most spectacular artworks in the city, the windows can be seen as a significant homecoming for BurneJones, who was born just a few minutes’ walk away on Bennetts Hill. They should also be enjoyed as the grand finale in his career-long partnership with William Morris and, as he said himself, “masterpieces marking the culmination of my powers”. Events celebrating the windows and their conservation will be ongoing until summer 2024. This will include the return of the sell-out Luxmuralis light and sound experience Divine Beauty at Night on 4, 5 and 6 January 2024.

Main picture: The Ascension window depicting Jesus parting with his followers and ascending into heaven forty days after Easter Above: Close up with the Burne-Jones glass to reveal extraordinary detail and colour

What’s on at Birmingham Cathedral: Pages 26 and 27 Art across The District: Pages 16-23

AUTUMN 2023

The Lowdown

Changing Vrooms!

F1 ARCADE IS BRINGING THE THRILL OF FORMULA 1 TO CHAMBERLAIN SQUARE F1® Arcade, the world’s first official Formula 1® simulator racing experience to put socialising at its core, is opening its second UK venue in Chamberlain Square in November. The 53 bespoke full-motion racing simulators have been uniquely designed by a leading simulator design company in conjunction with F1, featuring motion and audio-visual effects to fully immerse guests in their races. Featuring full-motion racing simulators, reaction games, huge viewing screens, food and cocktails, F1 is described as social gaming like you have never seen before. On Grand Prix race weekends, F1 Arcade will host Watch Party experiences, further enhancing the excitement of the Formula 1® atmosphere. Weekend DJs will create an unforgettable vibe throughout the venue allowing guests to escape the ordinary and dive into a world of high octane, speed, and pure entertainment.

AUTUMN 2023

The venue also incorporates a range of cutting-edge tech features that enhance the experience including the innovative ‘Arcade Hub’ where guests can create personal driver profiles and immerse themselves in a world tailored to their individual preferences and achievements. The brand’s launch in Birmingham will also see F1 Arcade set up a number of local neighbourhood projects with the aim of delivering long-term value to local charities, community groups and businesses.

Adam Breeden, CEO and Founder of F1 Arcade, said: “Birmingham was the obvious choice for our second venue opening in partnership with Formula 1 and we are thrilled to bring one of the world’s most sought-after hospitality experiences to the city. “Birmingham’s legendary automotive heritage and, of course, the fact it was once host to the Super Prix, makes this city the perfect home for F1 Arcade. We can’t wait to become part of the city’s vibrant leisure scene.”

The Lowdown

Pastures new for city food lovers FORMER COLMORE ROW BANK IS PRIME LOCATION FOR NEW RESTAURANT

A Colmore Row opening has been confirmed for the Pasture Restaurant group, who currently operate restaurants across Bristol and Cardiff. Pasture restaurants are a celebration of fire-based cooking and local ingredients; in-house butchers handpick and prepare the best meat from selected farms raising grass fed cattle. Pasture Birmingham will occupy 6,500 sq ft across one floor of a former Barclays Bank building at Fifteen Colmore Row, near Cathedral Square. It will create around 100 new jobs and the plan is for the restaurant

to be open by early spring 2024. Sam Elliott is the 35-year-old chefowner behind a growing portfolio of restaurants. This will be Elliott’s fifth opening of his own in as many years; he already operates two restaurants in Bristol (his first, Pasture, opened in 2018, and Radius opened last year); and two restaurants in Cardiff (a second Pasture, which opened in 2020, and Parallel which opened earlier this year). In 2024, Elliott will also be opening Prime by Pasture; a butchery, deli, cookery school and burger joint in the Redcliffe Quarter, Bristol.

Sam explained: “Just as we operate in Bristol and Cardiff, we will be engaging with local suppliers, and producers to influence everything from the menus to the interiors. What’s really exciting is the new restaurant will open up brand new supply chains for us – because just like our other restaurants, we want to make sure Pasture Birmingham is part of the Birmingham characteristic and completes our Pasture triangle.” Hortons’ Estate Ltd has leased 7,000 sq ft of refurbished offices at Fifteen Colmore Row and is continuing to refurbish the building.

Sam Elliot, chef-owner of Pasture Restaurant Group

SIX BY NICO TO OPEN AT 81 COLMORE ROW Prestige restaurant Six by Nico is opening in the heart of the Business District at 81 Colmore Row this winter. Birmingham will be the 13th location for the brand, which already has multiple sites throughout the UK and Ireland. Founded by chef Nico Simeone, Six by Nico creates a new six-course tasting menu

that changes every six weeks. The menu is priced at £39 per person, with the option to enjoy an expertly selected wine pairing with a £30 supplement. The venue will accommodate approximately 72 guests, and 60 new jobs will be created. The interior is influenced by the characteristics of the six-legged dragonfly,

including their body shape, colour, and habitat and to pay tribute to Birmingham’s industrial heritage and the pioneering work of Boulton and Watt, components of the steam engine will form subtle historical nods. Iron, timber and metal will be paired with opal lighting with artwork and screening inspired by ‘steam glass’.

AUTUMN 2023

‘The best part of my job is seeing a client come in who’s feeling hopeless and seeing them transformed’ PATRICIA WHITE, CEO, SUITED FOR SUCCESS We all know first impressions count. And it’s a maxim which one charity which started life in the Business District has used to help thousands of unemployed people into work. Catherine Hendrick talks to Suited for Success’ CEO Patricia White to find out more and discover why the award-winning charity is about more than just dressing to impress.

By Catherine Hendrick

In 2015 some of the Business District’s rising talent came together to create a ground-breaking project which would end up transforming thousands of lives. Suited for Success began as a CSR initiative launched by international law firm Gowling WLG. The company, which is based at Two Snowhill, decided to bring together a board of young professionals with the support of Lorna Gavin, former Head of Diversity, Inclusion & Corporate Responsibility at Gowling WLG UK, David Richardson, regional MD of Lloyds Banking Group and Nick Venning, then marketing director at PwC. They invited the CEO’s and senior managers of other businesses to nominate some of their emerging talent to take part. The team of young professionals decided to investigate why some

AUTUMN 2023

unemployed people struggled to find work. Lack of confidence was one reason. Another, they discovered, was that some just couldn’t afford a smart interview outfit. Especially if they’d been unemployed for a long-time, were struggling on benefits, or had been homeless or in prison. So the team decided to collect donations of ‘gently worn’ business suits and other smart workwear and accessories, including shoes and handbags, from the local business community. Business District retailers like luxury tailor Clements & Church also donated items. The idea was transformational. Over the past five years Suited for Success has helped over three thousand people prepare for interviews and find lifechanging employment. They include back-to-work mums, the homeless, young people not in work or education attending their first job interviews and former service personnel. After starting out as a six month pilot project working in a Birmingham foodbank, Suited for Success became a registered charity. In 2016 it opened a referral centre in Springhill in Hockley with CEO Patricia White at the helm. She says: “The best part of my job is seeing a client come in who’s feeling

hopeless and seeing them transformed. “One of the biggest barriers to finding work for many people is a lack of confidence and self-esteem. “To be able to help them overcome that and get a job is an incredible feeling.” Job seekers of all ages and backgrounds are referred to Suited for Success through job centres, frontline employment support agencies, training providers and grassroot charities. People can also book their own appointments via its website. The only condition is that they are unemployed and actively looking for work. During a one-to-one appointment Suited for Success’ specialist styling team helps clients pick out a free interview outfit and accessories to ensure they look the part and feel confident. Those who find jobs are also offered a capsule wardrobe of clothing items to start work. Suited for Success is adept at helping people dress for success but, despite its name, the charity is about much more than clothes. Job seekers are also given interview coaching by volunteers from a range of business professional backgrounds, including HR and recruitment. They receive tips and advice on everything from dealing with nerves

Big Interview to writing and improving their CVs. “Facing an interview can be one of the most daunting and nerve-racking situations for anyone, but even more so if you’ve not had a job interview for a number of years,” Patricia says. “Having the right interview techniques and skills can make all the difference between getting a job and being disappointed.” As part of its holistic approach Suited for Success runs workshops aimed at jobseekers from particular backgrounds. They could be mums who are struggling to get back to work or ex-service men and women. One client who attended a specialist workshop was forces veteran Matt Lambeth who found it difficult to adjust to life in civvy street. He began to feel a failure and experienced depression. But after attending a specialist ex-forces day he’s now running his own business as a locksmith. Patricia says: “People go into all sorts of work. We’ve helped one mum who was made redundant from a job as a classroom assistant who’s now found a job as a bus driver with National Express. “Sometimes you find that people have had professional careers like law and banking and then something’s happened in their life and they’ve lost everything. It could be relationship issues or addiction. But once they’ve sorted those problems out they want to go back to their professional careers.” Former clients say Suited for Success gave them self-belief and hope. Birmingham born Colmin was a talented singer and musician but by his early twenties he was caught up in a life of drugs and crime and ended up in prison. After almost dying following an accidental drugs overdose he decided to turn his life around. He began looking for work while living in a homeless hostel but didn’t have enough money for suitable clothes. After seeing Suited for Success online he got in touch and with its support found a job in refrigeration repairs. “ I felt so confident in the interview because of the suit they gave me,” he says. “When the interviewer looked at me he didn’t see someone who came out of the gutter.” Now Suited for Success is planning to take its award-winning services on the road to reach areas of Birmingham and

the West Midlands with some of the highest unemployment rates in the UK. National Express West Midlands has donated a double-decker bus which the charity has converted into a mobile drop-in centre with laptop stations, coaching booths and changing rooms. The new bus will see the charity working hard to reach an estimated 50% more unemployed people across Birmingham and the West Midlands. Suited for Success is planning to offer sponsorship packages to businesses to help fund the service. Patricia says collaboration is at the heart of Suited for Success and it has close connections with Colmore BID. “We bring together the corporate and third sector organisations in Birmingham to practically tackle the barriers unemployed men and women in the city face on their journey to employment,” the charity CEO explains. “By working together we can reach a greater number of people, impact unemployment and tackle poverty at its root.” As well as donating high-quality workwear businesses can support Suited for Success through charity partnerships, fundraising and pro-bono support. The charity also partners with corporate businesses to host CSR employee skilled volunteer days and put together bespoke employment projects like recruitment events.

“We recently held an Employment Day for return to work mums in Ladywood with the help of Gleesons’ Recruitment team,” says Patricia. “Within a couple of days we had an email about a couple of receptionist jobs. “One mum was really interested in a role at Jacobs. The company sorted out a tour of its premises and we coached her for the job interview. Ade now works on the reception. “It’s an example of how we can really work together with businesses in the city. We look at how we can bring clients and businesses with vacancies together.” As we talk the doorbell at the charity’s headquarters rings. Patricia apologises and goes to answer it. When she returns the joy in her voice is palpable. The unexpected visitor was a businessman who’d parked his car outside. The boot was full of suits which he wanted to donate. “People’s generosity is incredible and we really couldn’t do what we do without the kindness and support of the business professionals we work with,” Patricia says. “Suited for Success wouldn’t exist without the support of the Business District. It was born there.” For more information and to get in touch visit www.suitedforsuccess. co.uk, email info@suitedforsucess. co.uk or find the charity on LinkedIn at suited-for-success-uk

The Suited for Success bus stops off at Snow Hill Station

AUTUMN 2023

Movers Shakers A round-up of the latest Business District launches, relocations, appointments and promotions

ST PHILIP’S CHAMBERS St Philips Chambers has appointed Sara Lewis KC as its new Head of Chambers. Lewis, who succeeds Richard Atkins KC, is a highly experienced and respected KC specialising in family law; she was called to the Bar in 1996 and took Silk in 2021. On confirmation of her appointment, Sara Lewis KC said: “I am honoured to take on the role of Head of Chambers and look forward to leading such a talented group of barristers and staff. I take over the stewardship of a thriving chambers and my thanks go to outgoing Head, Richard Atkins KC, who expertly steered St Philips Chambers through the challenges of the Covid years.” St Philips Chambers is a signatory to the Women in Law Pledge. Lewis’s appointment as Head follows the appointment last year of Yolanda Pemberton as Chair of their Management Committee and Board of Directors.

AUTUMN 2023

Professional services firm, Aon plc, has unveiled its prestigious new office at 20 Colmore Circus. Mayor of the West Midlands, Andy Street, presided over the official ribbon cutting and met with members of the Aon team. Aon employs approximately 400 people in Birmingham, part of a 50,000-stong worldwide team, and has agreed a 10-year lease for the entire 22,709 sq ft 12th floor of The Colmore Building, built on the site of the former Birmingham Post & Mail printworks. Speaking at the official launch, Mayor of the West Midlands, Andy Street, said: “It’s great to see Aon making this long-term commitment to this city – placing a tremendous vote of confidence in Birmingham via this relocation decision.”

SHC DIGITAL Progressive Performance Agency, SHC Digital, in Birmingham, has strengthened its management team with the appointment of a new director. Amy Eddy has been appointed as Performance Director. Her role will be to look after the performance of all clients, with a specific focus on paid media to ensure the agency is delivering holistic campaigns for clients across both paid and organic channels. Eddy has over 22 years’ experience and has worked in various performance marketing roles both in-house and at agencies around the Midlands, including five years at McCann Erickson as Digital Planning Director.

Founder and director, Sally Hawkesford, said: “2023 has already been quite a year. Our aim is to continue to grow our team, strengthen our proposition and cement ourselves as one of the top performance marketing agencies in the Midlands. Bringing Amy into the team will also help us meet our objectives, and ensure that we continue to offer our clients our first class service and results, that meet their own business objectives.” SHC Digital is a team of 10 and includes graduates from Birmingham City University. It has over 25 clients including Selfridges, ProCook, H3 Healthcare and MOT Models. In 2022 the business was awarded the Best Integrated Campaign at the Performance Marketing World Awards (PMW).

RICHBOROUGH COMMERCIAL Richborough Commercial, the commercial strategic land promotion company launched earlier this year, has made two new hires. Alex Mortimore and Henry Wells have joined Richborough Commercial as Commercial Land Manager and Assistant Land & Planning Manager respectively. Mortimore has moved from Mulberry Land where he was Strategic Land Buyer, and Wells recently graduated from the Royal Agricultral University, Cirencester. Mortimore and Wells will support Richborough Commercial’s group director Nick Jones in bringing forward new commercial land opportunities to answer demand from developers and occupiers for quality, build-ready sites with planning permission in prime locations. Parent company Richborough launched the commercial division in February 2023

following investment for its next growth phase from Terra Firma’s Principal Capital Group, supported by Partners Group and the Hands Family Office. Nick Jones said: “I’m thrilled to welcome Alex and Henry on board to help further unlock Richborough Commercial’s potential across the country while delivering our very best service to clients.” Alex Mortimore added: “It’s such an exciting time to join Richborough with the new venture into commercial land promotion and the growth ambitions for the division.” Henry Wells added: “I am delighted to be joining Richborough, who are already recognised as one of the major UK land promoters in the residential sector.” Richborough Commercial’s current projects include a 200-acre Greenbelt site at junction 12 of the M6 in Staffordshire, with potential for 2.5 million sq. ft of Industrial & Logistics(I&L) space.

Alex Mortimore, Nick Jones and Henry Wells of Richborough Commercial

MARRONS Following a significant increase in demand for its services in the West Midlands, planning, design and development consultancy Marrons has expanded its Birmingham and Stratfordupon-Avon team with a trio of hires.

Partner Luke Hillson will lead its urban design and masterplanning function, working from Marrons’ 11 Colmore Square and Stratfordupon-Avon hubs. Assistant planner Sarah Watkins and graduate planner Louis Jones will work to promote land and secure planning permission for developers and landowners.

Clare Johnson

CENTRICK Property specialist Centrick has appointed a new director to spearhead its further growth in the booming build to rent sector. Clare Johnson has joined the Birmingham-based business as Build to Rent Director (BTR), leading its new VICI division which is currently working on a pipeline of over 1,000 units across the UK. Centrick, which has been investing in BTR technology to deliver the best-in-class client and resident experience, has been working closely with funds, developers, and investors to achieve sustained, measured growth. Investment in quality, purposebuilt rental communities has soared in recent years in cities including Birmingham, Manchester, Leeds, Southampton, Leicester, and Reading. Johnson joins the business having previously spent the last two years working as BTR director for brownfield developer Inland Homes plc where she worked alongside the planning, design, and technical teams to deliver their leasehold homes and BTR communities to the market. She has joined Centrick to enhance their specialist BTR division, VICI, and the end-to-end consultancy and management services on offer, building on her wide-ranging expertise in property development and property management. VICI delivers tailored advice and a fully integrated management solution for a wide range of BTR and mixed-use projects.

AUTUMN 2023

Movers&Shakers

HORTONS’ ESTATE Hortons’ Estate Ltd has announced a new letting with Octopus Energy that will expand the global energy and technology group’s regional office in Birmingham, and create more than 50 new jobs. Octopus Energy has completed a five-year lease on a c.2,900 sq ft office suite at Hortons’ Grade II* listed Imperial and Whitehall on Colmore Row. The facility will become the headquarters of the firm’s new national solar PV sales team. Octopus Energy already occupies a first floor suite within the same building, where its dedicated sales office has been based since 2021. Imperial and Whitehall was originally built by Isaac Horton in the 1870s. Part of the iconic The Grand Hotel Birmingham, it offers 16 premium, refurbished office suites which retain many of the building’s original features. Just one office suite remains available to let. Nina Meeks of Hortons’ Estate, said: “We are very pleased to have leased additional office space to one of the UK’s fastest growing private companies. Octopus Energy is an existing occupier that has successfully established a sales and training hub at Imperial and Whitehall, creating many green energy jobs in Birmingham. We look forward to continuing to work together in the years to come.”

AUTUMN 2023

Will Ventham, Ross Jones, Luke Thacker, Melissa Marton, Louise Peart, Kim Lewis, Richard Connolly, Richard Brown and Anne Walsh of CBRE

CBRE CBRE, the global real estate advisor, has made seven senior level promotions at its Birmingham office. Anne Walsh, Richard Connolly and Richard Brown have been promoted to senior director, while Raj Bains (Operational Real Estate), Ross Jones (Building Consultancy) and Luke Thacker (Industrial & Logistics) have made the step up to director. Anne Walsh joined CBRE’s Hotel Advisory team in 2015, with a focus on the regional UK hotel sector. She advises private and public sector clients on all stages of a hotel’s lifecycle, from inception through to trading. Richard Connolly joined CBRE’s Valuation team in 2006. He specialises in commercial property valuations for a range of clients, including major banks and lenders, institutional funds and property companies. Richard Brown is a member of CBRE’s

national Planning and Development team, based in Birmingham. He has worked in planning for more than 20 years, both in the public and private sectors, with a particular specialism in complex infrastructure projects and largescale city centre regeneration schemes. In addition to the senior promotions, Beth Pywell and Dan White have been promoted to associate director; Louise Peart and Toni Sohpal to senior surveyor; Sam Shaw and Kim Lewis to surveyor and Melissa Marton to personal assistant. Will Ventham, head of CBRE Birmingham, has also been made up to executive director. He said: “This latest round of promotions demonstrates the strength and breadth of talent we have at CBRE, at all levels of the career spectrum, from surveyors to senior directors. “Whilst it’s important to recognise and reward the efforts of those at a senior level, it’s equally important to be nurturing talent at a more junior level, and I’m pleased we have struck that balance with the promotions we have made.”

Movers&Shakers CARTER JONAS

RSM UK Audit, tax and consulting company RSM UK has appointed Ben Collett, pictured above, as partner to lead the firm’s performance improvement and turnaround practice within consulting. Based in RSM’s 103 Colmore Row office, Collett is an experienced turnaround and transactions professional of 25 years. He joins from financial advisory firm Kroll and has held roles as strategic projects director at IMI PLC and KPMG. At RSM, he will focus on helping companies improve profitability, working capital and cashflow. His work covers companies in turnaround and performance improvement situations as well as those engaged in buy side and sell side transactions. Collett has particular expertise in manufacturing and engineering as well as broad experience across many other industries. He works with corporate and private equity clients, helping them identify, plan and deliver operational changes to improve financial performance and shareholder value. He said: “Given the current economic challenges and disruption following Covid, there are huge pressures on UK businesses but also significant opportunities. I am looking forward to working with management teams in the middle market to help them implement the changes needed to deliver these opportunities and maximise future value.”

In a newly created role, property consultancy Carter Jonas has recruited Alex Tross as a partner to lead its Birmingham office agency team. Tross has an established track record in commercial property and joins Carter Jonas with a roster of his existing clients, including Fidelity International, Paloma Capital, Floreat and Blue Noble. His appointment builds on the momentum from Carter Jonas’s acquisition last year of Midlands industrial and logistics agency McGuinness Waddington Real Estate (MWRE). Tross, who acts as Colmore BID Deputy Chair, was previously at Centrick, where he was a commercial director, and has more than 17 years of commercial real estate experience focused on the Midland’s market. Before this, he headed up the office advisory team at Lambert Smith Hampton Birmingham, which he joined after seven years at Colliers. Scott Harkness, head of commercial, Carter Jonas said: “The nuances of the Birmingham market together with

our partnership-led approach create a unique opportunity for our team to stand out from the more traditional players in the region, to deliver a bespoke service for occupiers and landlords. Having established a commercial presence in Birmingham, we have created a solid platform from which we can continue to invest and grow by recruiting the best people, and we are excited to welcome Alex to Carter Jonas as part of this strategy. Alex’s knowledge of the market and understanding of the shifting needs of clients will be invaluable.” Tross said: “This is a fantastic opportunity to join Carter Jonas at a really exciting time for the partnership. There are ambitious plans to grow strategically in the Midlands, as evidenced by the MWRE purchase last year and the rapid growth of its Birmingham office since first launching here in 2016. “In our industry, Carter Jonas is renowned for forging lasting and trusted relationships with its clients, and I look forward to working with Scott and the wider team to establish a strong agency practice in the region founded on these values.”

Mark Johnson, Mark Rooke, Max Sowter, Lilyann Willis and Marcello Della Croce

MK2 Property consultancy MK2 Real Estate has made two new hires at its Birmingham office. Max Sowter joins MK2 founders Mark Johnson and Mark Rooke in the investment team.Having recently qualified as a Member of the RICS, Max moves from Clowes Developments where he worked in both their asset management and development teams working on various commercial asset acquisitions and disposals. Lilyann Willis is the latest member of the

property management team, led by Marcello Della Croce. At the start of her surveying career, she joins the firm’s apprentice scheme and will shortly start studying for a real estate degree at Birmingham City University on day release. Mark Johnson said: “Having made a number of senior hires last year we now look forward to building the next generation of surveyors with Max and Lilyann coming on board.” The appointments take MK2’s headcount to 25 at its Birmingham HQ, with a further 18 onsite facilities management staff.

AUTUMN 2023

Art Across The District

Follow new trail map to enjoy the best of city art and heritage BID AIMS TO SHINE A LIGHT ON AREA’S STREET ART, SCULPTURES AND MURALS The team at Colmore BID have a great history of celebrating culture, previously having commissioned street art, murals and sculpture for the District, making it a more enjoyable place to live, work and visit. With the launch of the new Art Trail, they are now encouraging locals and tourists alike to explore and appreciate the city centre’s public art, history and heritage, which can be all too easily overlooked and walked past. With 11 landmarks on the map, highlights include the ‘Birmingham Man’ sculpture of Thomas Attwood sitting on the steps of Chamberlain Square, an intricate mosaic which tells the story of train travel and a nature-themed mural featuring urban animals. The trail also features several local galleries and historic buildings, including Birmingham Cathedral, known for its wonderful stainedglass windows, Birmingham School of Art, where William and May Morris once lectured, and the Birmingham and Midland Institute, which houses a charming (and cheeky) monkey mural. All of the art stops are within easy walking distance of one

AUTUMN 2023

An introduction to the Colmore BID Art Trail by arts historian Ruth Millington Leaning over to one side with two feet in the ground, and located at the heart of Birmingham, is the iconic ‘Iron:Man’ sculpture by Anthony Gormley. It’s also the very first stop on Colmore Business District’s brand new Art Trail, which launched just this month. The city centre is full of art and history, but we often stroll straight past it – I know I certainly do, often rushing for my next coffee at Morridge or 200 Degrees. So, I was really excited to hear about this new trail. Downloading the beautifully illustrated map, designed by local artist Tom Woolley, I set off on an adventure through the city centre to see the first 5 of the sights, all within walking distance of one another.

1. IRON:MAN

another, and are illustrated on the map, which can be viewed and downloaded from Colmore Business District’s website before setting off on a cultural afternoon out.

Pictured: The Birmingham Man sculpture of Thomas Attwood in Chamberlain Square

colmorebusinessdistrict.com/ projects/colmore-bid-art-walk

Since 1993, the 6-metre tall ‘Iron:Man’ has towered over people passing through Victoria Square. It’s Sir Antony Gormley’s first piece of permanent public art in Britain, beating the Angel of the North by five years. Cast at Firth Rixon Castings in Willenhall, it’s a symbolic sculpture representing the traditional skills of Birmingham and the Black Country. As the artist himself has said, it also signifies the city’s future: “It was made for... the very heart of Birmingham – an incredible city that has played such an important role in the Industrial Revolution. ‘Iron:Man’ asks: ‘Given that extraordinary legacy, what kind of life will now come to accompany it in the future?’ Birmingham is full of creative possibility, of people that make things - engineers, foundrymen, constructors of extraordinary machines that extend our capability. This work was the first of my public works in Britain, and it’s wonderful that it came back to join the people of the city that gave it birth.”

2. THOMAS ATTWOOD

Just a few minutes’ walk away, if that, is the trail’s next work of art, officially called ‘Birmingham Man’. On the steps of the recently refurbished Chamberlain

Square is a statue of reformer, economist and MP Thomas Attwood who founded the Birmingham Political Union in 1830. This was an organisation campaigning for cities, and large towns such as Birmingham, to be directly represented in Parliament. Rather than standing on a plinth, he appears to have stepped down to sit on the steps, as if ready for locals and tourists to join him as he reads through some notes. The statue of Attwood includes further pieces of art including a soap box upon which Attwood would have stood to give speeches and sheaves of paper that spell out important aspects of Attwood’s political demands, along with the words ‘Reform’, ‘The Vote’ and ‘Prosperity’, stencilled into the nearby steps. There’s a team of women behind this statue: it was created by artists Sioban Coppinger and Fiona Peever, and the late Priscilla Mitchell, Attwood’s great great granddaughter, who commissioned and donated the piece to the city.

3. BIRMINGHAM SCHOOL OF ART

Bidding Attwood goodbye, I walk past Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery (currently closed for renovation works) to the next stop, the beautiful Birmingham School of Art. A work of art in itself, this Grade I listed Venetian Gothic building has original stained glass windows, as well as an impressive stone rose window, designed by John Chamberlain. It points to the School’s past – it was a hugely important centre for the Arts and Crafts Movement, which celebrated a return to nature in the face of increasing industrialisation. William Morris and his daughter May, known for their distinctive wallpaper, textiles and tiles, both lectured here. Meanwhile, the likes of Pre-Raphaelite Edward BurneJones, Surrealist Emmy Bridgwater, and Arts and Crafts painter Kate Bunce were all students, walking across the mosaic floors which still stand today.

4.BIRMINGHAM AND MIDLAND INSTITUTE

Opposite Birmingham School of Art is another listed building with an incredible

‘The Art Trail encourages us all to stop, look at and enjoy the art, history and heritage around us in Birmingham’ – Ruth Millington

history, the Birmingham and Midland Institute. Founded by Act of Parliament in 1854 for the ‘Diffusion and Advancement of Science, Literature and Art amongst all Classes of Persons resident in Birmingham and Midland Counties’, the BMI has been at the heart of the city’s cultural life for almost 170 years. Charles Dickens was one of its early Presidents, while an important artist’s muse, Kathleen Garman, attended music lessons in the building. Percy Wyndham Lewis, Jacob Epstein and Augustus John were among the famous artists she posed for. As writer-in-residence at the BMI, this is where I wrote my first book MUSE, in between looking out of the window for inspiration at Birmingham School of Art.

5. COLLEY ISON GALLERY

From the heritage of the BMI to the art of today, the fifth stop on the Art Trail is Colley Ison Gallery. Located on Colmore Row, this welcoming commercial gallery exhibits and sells modern master art by the likes of Andy Warhol, David Hockney and Roy Lichtenstein. It also represents some of Britain’s very best contemporary artists, and many of them

are Birmingham-based, taking inspiration from the city itself. Annette Pugh paints local landscapes and chandeliers from Birmingham’s Grand Hotel, while sensational realist painter Danny Howes captures life and people from the region, including market stall holders or shoppers on New Street, in his frame. Reuben Colley, on the other hand, finds beauty in empty and overlooked places, depicting canal tunnels, graffiti-covered subways and the suburbs as spots worth looking at. In fact, that is what this Art Trail does – it encourages us all to stop, look at and enjoy the art, history and heritage around us in Birmingham, as we walk its streets. A city of a thousand trades, it’s also a city of a thousand artists and art works, which can inspire us every single day. In the spring 2024 edition of Colmore Life, Ruth will be uncovering landmarks 6 -10 on Colmore Business District’s Art Trail. Please do share any photographs, using #ColmoreArtTrail and tagging @ColmoreBID on social media – we look forward to seeing your images!

Follow the trail over the page

AUTUMN 2023

Colmore Business District

ue tQ sS rle

L iv

sw ay

rn Co

ick

ar ga re tS

ll S

t mo

t Wa Victoria Sq

Chamberlain Sq

AUTUMN 2023

oo erl

Templ e

Templ

l Co

w Ro e r

New St

ore Ci rc Colm

n ee

ay sw

yS t

le Row

11 9 Bu

ll S

Colmore Art Trail 1. 2. 3. 4.

Iron:Man, Victoria Square Thomas Attwood Birmingham School of Art Birmingham and Midland Institute

5. Colley Ison 6. Tree-lined Boulevard 7. 8. 9. 10. 11.

Umbra at Church Street Birmingham Cathedral Clarendon Fine Art Livery Street Mural Snow Hill Mural

AUTUMN 2023

Art Across The District HOLLYWOOD BECKONS FOR COLLEY ISON GALLERY ARTIST Award-winning figurative painter Roxana Halls, represented by Colmore Row gallery Colley Ison, has snapped up her first commission from Hollywood – to paint an alligator. Roxana was asked by Disney to create a series of portraits for their new blockbuster film Haunted Mansion. Inspired by the classic ride at the Disneyland Resort theme park, the film, about a mansion’s supernatural squatters, stars Oscar-winner Jamie Lee Curtis and Danny DeVito. Centrepieces in the house’s ‘Stretching Room’ are four spooky, 5-foot-high paintings, created by Roxana, that come to life. The artist had to keep her exciting debut Hollywood commission a closely guarded secret for two years because she signed a strict agreement promising not to tell friends or work colleagues about it. She came under extra pressure too because, by coincidence, the Haunted Mansion work involving an alligator arrived “simultaneously” as she was also painting a crocodile, to be featured by the BBC. “When I was asked to start work on the Disney characters in the Stretching Room gallery, simultaneously, I was also filming the BBC One art series Extraordinary Portraits,” explained Roxana. “The portrait I created of the British

AUTUMN 2023

Roxana snaps up Disney commission twins Georgia and Melissa Laurie tells the story of their horrific, nearfatal crocodile attack while they were swimming in a lagoon on holiday in Mexico, and the subsequent trauma they suffered.” In August, the painting was on show

for the first time at the Colley Ison Gallery on Colmore Row. Roxanna added: “I had just received the Disney film commission when I had to take a break from that to start my BBC painting of the twins. One of the things which was truly peculiar was that one of the characters in the Disney Stretching Room paintings is of a girl with a parasol. When the paintings are stretched, it reveals that she is on a tightrope suspended over an alligator… and I had just been painting a crocodile. “Also, I have several friends who are big fans of the Haunted Mansion ride, but I couldn’t let on or say anything to anybody about my Disney work. One day, while I was working at my studio, my assistant happened to mention what a huge fan of Disney she was and that she adored Disneyland. I asked her what her favourite part of Disneyland was and she replied: ‘The Haunted Mansion – and especially the Stretching Room’. “I couldn’t tell her that my Stretching Room paintings were right there behind her, hidden in a cupboard.”

Edward Burne-Jones at work on ‘The Star of Bethlehem’, 1890. Courtesy Birmingham Museums Trust

SPECIAL FEATURE BY RUTH MILLINGTON

8 artists who have taken Birmingham as their muse TURN THE PAGE TO FIND OUT MORE >> AUTUMN 2023

Art Across The District Not only has Birmingham been home to many talented artists, but it has also been an inspiring subject for them. Since the 19th century, creatives have been drawn to work in the worldrenowned ‘city of a thousand trades’, joining workshops as designers, illustrators and jewellers. These skilled artists soon sought other outlets for their creativity: they opened schools, established societies and art classes, and launched modern art movements in Birmingham. Rather than simply acting as a backdrop, the city has been an important subject for artists who have depicted its architecture and industry, canals, hotels and people. Today, contemporary painters continue to portray the ever-changing city of Birmingham in surprising ways, finding beauty in the overlooked. Here are eight artists who have taken the Second City as their muse.

Emmy Bridgwater, ‘Night Work is about to Commence’, 1940 - 1943. Courtesy the Estate of the artist and Birmingham Museums Trust

Walter Langley, ‘Old Market Hall and Fountain, Birmingham’, 1880. Wikimedia Commons

1.EDWARD BURNE-JONES (1833 – 1898) From 1848 to 1852 Edward Burne-Jones studied at the Birmingham School of Art, which became a significant centre for the Arts and Crafts Movement. Its members celebrated the handmade and natural world, in the face of increasing industrialisation. As Birmingham modernised, Burne-Jones used his art to create an alternative existence of enchantment, myth, spirituality and beauty in paintings such as the four that make up ‘The Legend of the Briar Rose’ (1885 – 1890). Blurring the boundaries between fine art and crafts, Burne-Jones also made tapestries, furniture and illustrations, while also designing the four exquisite stained-glass windows at Birmingham Cathedral.

2.SAMUEL LINES

(1778 – 1863) Samuel Lines was an early member of the ‘Birmingham School’ group of artists, who were interested in picturing wild, untamed landscapes. However, he also took great inspiration from his hometown,

AUTUMN 2023

where he co-founded the life drawing academy that would eventually evolve into the Royal Birmingham Society of Artists and Birmingham School of Art. In 1807, he opened his own academy for training pupils in drawing and painting in Newhall Street. This was so successful that he was able to build his own house in Temple Row. Committed to supporting other local artists, it’s no wonder he pictured the city in celebratory paintings such as ‘Birmingham from the Dome of St Philip’s Church’ in 1821.

3.WALTER LANGLEY

(1852 – 1922) Walter Langley spent much of his career in Birmingham where he worked as a lithographer. While studying at the Birmingham School of Design, he painted watercolour impressions of the city, including ‘Old Market Hall and Fountain, Birmingham’ (1880). A smartly-dressed woman seems to be waiting for someone as she stands inside the impressive Old Market Hall building in Birmingham’s Bull Ring, which was designed by Charles Edge in 1833, and contained around 600 market stalls.

Maddox House on Edmund Street

Behind her is a beautiful bronze fountain, demonstrating Birmingham’s significance as a centre for excellent metalwork during this time.

4.CONROY MADDOX

(1912 – 2005) Located at 117 Edmund Street is a plaque paying tribute to Birmingham Surrealist, Conroy Maddox. During a career of over 70 years, he made more than 2,000 paintings, as well as collages and sculptures, inspired by dreams and his imagination. However, he was also influenced by the Second City, where he gathered a group of Surrealists around him. Many of his paintings have an industrial feel, with trains and factorystyle buildings acting as the stage for surreal happenings. He recognised the importance of the city to his work and the wider group, “I suppose, yes I suppose Birmingham was rather a Mecca, you know”, he said.

5.EMMY BRIDGWATER

(1906 – 1999) The same industrial atmosphere fills the paintings of Emmy Bridgwater, who

Art Across The District Samuel Lines, ‘Birmingham from the Dome of St Philip’s Church in 1821’, 1821. Courtesy Birmingham Museums Trust

Annette Pugh, ‘Opulent I’. Courtesy Annette Pugh and Colley Ison Gallery

studied at Birmingham School of Art before joining the Surrealists. In one of her most significant works, ‘Night Work Is About To Commence’ (1940-43), a dark raven perches on the edge of a bathtub, on a draped piece of fabric. Besides and within the bath are domestic items, including a loom and a clothes horse, echoing the title’s reference to work. In this thickly painted image, Bridgwater has invoked the Surrealist principle of juxtaposing unusual objects to reveal surreal narratives: the bathtub appears boat-like and sheets of fabric emerge as sails. Like many of the women Surrealists, Bridgwater subverted domestic spaces, re-imagining them in uncanny terms.

6.ANNETTE PUGH (1969 – present) Throughout the decades, Birmingham’s Grand Hotel has hosted royalty and rock stars, Winston Churchill and Charlie Chaplin. Its Victorian grandeur and art deco designs have also inspired contemporary painter, Annette Pugh, who has painted the hotel’s elegant chandeliers in closely cropped

John Salt, ‘White Chevy, Red Trailer’. 1975. Courtesy Birmingham Museums Trust

compositions. Through her painterly style and lush embellishment, she explores “aspects of ornamentation and aspiration”, evoking the wealth and grandeur that these objects represent. However, hanging from faded ceilings, Pugh’s chandeliers also hint at haunting histories that can’t quite be hidden, despite the restoration of Birmingham’s original grande-dame hotel. Pugh also takes inspiration from local landscapes, painting ponds and gardens in heightened pink and purple hues. Providing viewers with a sense of escape and mystery, the artist invites us all to find beauty close to home.

7.JOHN SALT

(1937 – 2021) A leading pioneer of photorealism, John Salt is best known for painting highlydetailed canvases of cars – broken, wrecked and abandoned – in suburban settings. Growing up in Birmingham, a city defined by car manufacturing during the 1940s and 50s, had a huge impact on the artist. His father owned a motor repair garage, and his grandfather was a sign writer, painting stripes onto the outside

Reuben Colley, ‘Victoria Square towards New Street’, 2023. Courtesy Reuben Colley and Colley Ison Gallery

of cars. While studying at Birmingham School of Art, from 1952 to 1958, he was introduced to the incredibly detailed paintings of the Pre-Raphaelite painters, on show at Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery. These were to influence his own photorealist paintings, in which nature intertwines with, and grows over, cars.

8.REUBEN COLLEY

(1976 – present) Reuben Colley is an artist synonymous with Birmingham. Born and brought up in Hodge Hill, the city and its surrounding regions have inspired Colley throughout his career. From canal tunnels and graffiti-covered subways to suburban shopping centres, he finds beauty in unexpected places, painting the everchanging city with evocative realism. As the artist explains, “I don’t paint a particular subject, I try to depict an atmosphere”. He finds quiet, forgotten or empty corners of the city, and turns these subdued scenes into stunning contemporary compositions through an evocative play of light and attention to detail. Birmingham is worth illuminating, his canvases seem to say.

Ruth Millington is a Birmingham-based art and culture writer, curator and consultant. She has authored several books including MUSE (Penguin, 2022), which uncovers the inspiring real-life figures in famous artworks. To find out more about Ruth’s work, you can follow her on Instagram @millington_ruth or visit her website ruthmillington.co.uk

AUTUMN 2023

Art Across The District

Best of Brum on display at Snow Hill Square EXHIBITION FONDLY REMEMBERS SOCIAL MEDIA ACCOUNT FOUNDER DAVE ORAM An exhibition showcasing over 40 extraordinary historic Birmingham photographs was hosted in Snow Hill Square this autumn. Chosen from the archives of photography shared through the iconic Brumpic social media accounts, the exhibition provided a fascinating insight into the changing social and cultural face of the great city of Birmingham. Brumpic was started by Dave Oram in 2013 and has grown to be one of the most well-loved social media accounts in the city. For over a decade, Brumpic has shared photos from the past – giving a glimpse into a collective social history – and promoted what’s new and great in local arts, photography, and culture. Dave sadly passed away in 2022. He has left a lasting legacy – collating and sharing photography capturing

AUTUMN 2023

Birmingham’s history and celebrating the new developments and cultural assets. To honour this legacy, Colmore Business Improvement District (BID)’s Outstanding Places Working Group worked with local photographers, cultural organisations, Brumpic, and IChoose Birmingham to curate the exhibition of images from those collected by Dave over the years. Over the month, visitors to the Business District enjoyed a selection of photography showcasing the city and its people through the ages. In addition to the exhibition in Snow Hill Square, visitors to the District can follow the curated trail (see previous pages) helping them to discover a selection of art from Birminghambased artists showcasing the city and its people. Mike Mounfield, Project Manager

at Colmore BID, said: “With the agreement of Dave’s family, we felt it appropriate to stage an outdoor photography exhibition this year in memory of Dave’s life and the social media phenomenon that is Brumpic. “We would like to thank our delivery partners, Birmingham Museums Trust and Standard8, and Brumpic custodian Caroline Durbin, for their help in putting on this exhibition. It is bound to be a heart-warming moment of reflection and celebration, as we remember a remarkable person.” The curatorial committee, who were all connected to Dave in one way or another, worked tirelessly to finalise the list of photos that were on display. The exhibition featured photography under several themes, including Street Scenes, People Through the Ages, Moments in History, and Dave’s Faves.

Dave’s Faves

The Brumpic exhibition curators, who all had a close connection to Dave Oram, chose photographs under various themes, including Dave’s Faves. Here’s a selection of images he was most connected to, including a stunning photograph of Livery Street, plus images from the Phyllis Nicklin archives.

‘It is a heart-warming moment of reflection and celebration, as we remember a remarkable person’

AUTUMN 2023

Christmas In The District

Autumn and winter events at Birmingham Cathedral

DIVINE BEAUTY AT NIGHT

Light and sound projections returning 4/5/6 Jan 2024, 5pm – 9pm – Tickets £4 / £5 World-renowned light and sound projection company Luxmuralis will be returning to Birmingham Cathedral in January 2023, with their sell-out light and sound experience ‘Divine Beauty at Night’. This immersive experience, based on the cathedral’s four remarkable stained-glass windows, tells the story of the windows, their imagery and their history. Colourful patterns and sections from the windows will be projected onto the inside of the cathedral, accompanied by specially commissioned music. This unique piece of art brings the story of the windows to life through an emotive exhibition. Divine Beauty at Night: Visit the Birmingham Cathedral Eventbrite page for more details.

AUTUMN 2023

Appointment of Bishop of Birmingham

MARKING REMEMBRANCE AT BIRMINGHAM CATHEDRAL WITH FAURÉ’S REQUIEM

Christmas Market Opening Evensong: 15 Nov at 5.45pm Advent Carol Service: Sun 3 Dec, 4pm Handel’s Messiah concert: Sat 9 Dec, 7pm-9.30pm. Visit the Birmingham Cathedral Eventbrite page for more details.

Experience the mesmerising choral masterpiece Fauré’s Requiem, during the poignant time of national remembrance. Performed by Birmingham Cathedral’s Choir of girls and lower voices. The November concert is a highlight of the cathedral’s musical calendar, showcasing some of the most stunning performances by the choir. Tickets from £8-£10 – Sat Nov 11 at 7pm. Visit the Birmingham Cathedral Eventbrite page.

BBC WM Carol service recording: Tues 19 Dec at 1pm Nine Lessons and Carols: Sat 23 and Sun 24 Dec at 5pm Midnight Mass: Sun 24 Dec, 11.45pm All Christmas services and events on the Birmingham Cathedral website.

Sat 11 Nov: 7pm-8pm

CHRISTMAS HIGHLIGHTS Enjoy a range of inspiring musical experiences and traditional Christmas services at Birmingham Cathedral.

CINEMA ON THE SQUARE Various dates

Birmingham Cathedral Pop-up Cinema with Yuup. From family favourites to cult classics, watch your favourite films in a beautiful and unusual setting at Birmingham Cathedral. Twilight: Thu Nov 16, 7.30pm Muppets Christmas Carol: Sat Dec 16, 10am Visit yuup.co/cinema-on-the-square

The King has approved the nomination of The Reverend Dr Michael Volland, Principal of Ridley Hall, Cambridge, for election as Bishop of Birmingham, in succession to The Right Reverend David Urquhart, following his retirement. Michael was educated at Northumbria University, King’s College London and Durham University and trained for ministry at Ridley Hall, Cambridge. He served his title at Gloucester Cathedral and was ordained Priest in 2007. In 2009, Michael was appointed Director of Mission at Cranmer Hall, Durham, and additionally served as Chaplain to Durham Army Cadet Force from 2012 and as Team Leader and Mission Priest for the East Durham Mission Project and also Area Dean of Easington from 2014. In 2015, Michael was appointed Director of Context-Based Training and Pastoral Tutor at Ridley Hall, Cambridge, and in 2017 he took up his current role as Principal of Ridley Hall. Since then he has also served as President of the Cambridge Theological Federation and Chair of the Theological Education Institutions Principal’s Steering Group. Of his nomination as Bishop of Birmingham, Michael said: “I am excited to be following the call of God to serve the city and region as the next Bishop of Birmingham. The family and I are looking forward to making our home in Birmingham, getting to know and love people and communities, and to sharing the good news of Jesus Christ alongside Christians across the Church of England Birmingham. “Please pray for us as we prepare to move into God’s hopeful future.”

AUTUMN 2023

Local History

From Gothic Tales to Gargoyles Kevin Thomas’s Birmingham Heritage Walks have become a must-do for locals and tourists. Here he shares a few gems from the city’s history, including tales from our own Colmore Business District. Interview: Lisa Piddington When you stroll through the streets of Birmingham, it’s easy to be distracted by its modern architecture, endless development sites and the bustling energy of its people. But embark on one of Kevin Thomas’s walking tours and you’ll discover that beneath the surface of this vibrant city lies a treasure trove of history that dates back centuries. “It all began with a conversation at the opening of my photographic exhibition called The Letterboxes of the Jewellery Quarter,” Kevin recalls. “It documented

AUTUMN 2023

and mapped out the unique letterboxes of the area in order to tell its story spanning over one hundred years.” As luck would have it, Tracy Thorn, who runs the Ghost Signs Walking Tours, attended a talk about the exhibition and suggested that rather than shelving all his documented research, he should turn it into a new project. That’s when Kevin decided to create his specialised Birmingham Heritage Walks, allowing residents and visitors the chance to share in the

region’s rich history alongside him. “I love exploring the stories behind places I’ve visited,” he says. “Every place has something unique to offer, from its architecture down to the smallest details of everyday life that have been forgotten with time. Whenever I visit somewhere new, it’s like opening up a book full of secrets waiting to be discovered. One small event or story often leads me on an unexpected journey as I uncover even more fascinating tales about the people who lived there.” His passion for uncovering these stories is evident in every step he takes; he engages with his guests, encouraging them to handle artifacts he has collected to connect them to a world hidden away. While his tours have proved a hit he’s especially thrilled by the number of repeat guests, and recently introduced his popular Gothicthemed walks. “My aim is to tell stories about the people who live in this city; their lives, history and culture are all part of what makes Birmingham so special,” Kevin explains. “Each tour paints an evocative picture that brings these fascinating stories alive for my guests, no matter their age.” A favourite sites to visit is the Vampire

‘On another tour, we visit the former Eagle Insurance offices on Colmore Row (left). Designed by WR Lethaby and JL Ball in 1900, it is a prime example of the architects’ interest in symbolism and primitive forms’

Pub, that once stood on Great Hampton Row. This establishment was no ordinary bar; it was also partmuseum and, rather bizarrely, partgarden centre. Opened in 1845 before closing its doors in 1913, it even had its own currency featuring a vampire bat. Kevin loves telling captivating tales about the Birmingham suffragette movement too. In the early 1900s

they were among the most militant in Britain, and their actions have left an indelible mark on the city’s past. In Colmore Business District, their occupation of St Philip’s Cathedral stands out as a particularly poignant moment. When the Archbishop refused to intervene in the forcefeeding of suffragettes at Winson Green Prison, they took matters into

their own hands by painting slogans inside St Philip’s as an act of protest. While it’s a story that isn’t widely told today, it is precisely these unsung heroics that Kevin seeks to uncover when exploring Birmingham – untold stories that provide profound insights into the city’s past that still echo to this day. “On another tour, we visit the former Eagle Insurance offices on Colmore Row. Designed by WR Lethaby and JL Ball in 1900, it is a prime example of the architects’ interest in symbolism and primitive forms. The eagle, which symbolises the sun god, is especially prominent on the building’s exterior, with bronze doors featuring sun discs and an eagle relief in the centre. The doorways also have segmental hoods and three-part mouldings derived from Buddhist temples. Given that Greek mythology associates eagles with punishment – Prometheus was famously punished by having his liver ripped out by an eagle – it’s no wonder that insurance would be needed!” Kevin’s photography of Birmingham is equally compelling. He looks for the small details, the subtle marks of craftsmanship that often go unnoticed. “People always say ‘look up’, and that’s true,” he says. “But stopping and looking slowly sometimes exposes details that would get overlooked.” The Birmingham Heritage Walks are a testament to the city’s rich history, seeing it in a new light and appreciating the intricate layers that have shaped it along the way. As you explore the streets with Kevin as your guide, you’ll find yourself transported to a different era, where the past comes to life and the present is enriched by the stories of those who came before us.

AUTUMN 2023

Charity & Community

How you can support the Ladywood Project in 2024 Right: How Gensler kindly transformed The Ladywood Project spaces with a bright and bold new look

When families are in crisis they not only need practical help but need to know that someone will listen to them and understand without judgement or criticism. This is where the Ladywood Project steps up to help, by offering a range of services, support programmes and sessions. The Ladywood Project’s work includes Wrigglers – a long running play ‘n’ stay group and drop-ins for families in an informal social setting for the community to congregate. Many families are struggling to maintain a constant fuel supply in their homes and with fuel prices rising and for a number of years The Ladywood Project has raised money to help the individuals and families in greatest need keep their supply on, particularly if a financial crisis arises due to a delay in benefit or an unexpected cost arising.

Colmore BID is proud to support The Ladywood Project and has introduced a range of projects and schemes to encourage the Business District to donate and raise awareness of such a worthwhile cause. Among the many initiatives the BID has launched is an Easter Egg donation scheme in partnership with Birmingham & Midland Institute on Margaret Street. The BID also introduced architecture practice Gensler to the Ladywood Project and Gensler kindly worked on a refurbishment project at their Ladywood centre. Another area of support has been to help secure funding from Business District law firm DWF to support

Christmas activity at the Ladywood Project. Kelsey Dwyer of Colmore BID said: “The BID is encouraging businesses and individuals to support the charity this winter to help families supported by Ladywood Community Project “We are now working on another Christmas breakfast hosted by Dishoom for the Ladywood Community Project. Colmore BID will also be looking for businesses to sponsor a child with a gift this Christmas. “Colmore BID is asking businesses to give people access to opportunities to seek help and make new friendships across Ladywood and the city centre.”

Bravery awards after city centre knife attack A woman stabbed in Birmingham city centre was rescued by brave strangers who tackled the attacker with a chair. Stunned Paul Fogoe, coffee shop worker Ali Mehmet and Colmore BID security officer James Crooks, pictured right, reacted quickly to the knife attack in Temple Row. Mr Fogoe rushed towards the attacker, picking up a chair and striking him over the head

AUTUMN 2023

after seeing the knife attack close to Great Western Arcade. As the knife fell to the floor, Mr Fogoe put himself between the woman and her attacker, police revealed. The stabbing was at around 9.50 am on Tuesday, August 16, 2022, when the city centre was bustling with workers. The woman stabbed was taken to hospital but did not suffer life-changing injuries.

The three have been rewarded with a Good Citizen Award from West Midlands Police Chief Constable Craig Guildford but will also receive a Police Public Bravery Silver Medal. A West Midlands Police spokesperson said: “The trio’s intervention may have ultimately saved the life of the woman who was attacked. She survived the ordeal and was treated for her injuries.”

Shining a light on brilliant city charities

CHARITIES CONNECTED TO COLMORE Just a few of the charities who have an office in the city, some of whom are based within the Colmore District. CHILDREN’S LIVER FOUNDATION From its head office in Birmingham, it provides a comprehensive information hub on childhood liver disease for healthcare professionals and for families. childliverdisease.org RONALD MCDONALD HOUSE A home away from home that provides comfort, support and resources to families who travel far from home for the medical care their child needs. rmhc.org

Colmore BID supports a number of charities based in the city that raise awareness of, and offer support on, a wide range of causes. The BID also hosts a number of fundraising activities throughout the year to raise much needed funds for charitable causes. To help charities with a connection to the District raise their profiles, the BID has launched an online directory. Visit colmorebusinessdistrict.com/ charities-in-colmore-bid/

CHARITY OF THE MONTH

Children’s Liver Disease Foundation (CLDF) Located in Great Charles Street, Birmingham, the Children’s Liver Disease Foundation (CLDF) is a national charity which provides emotional support and practical assistance to over 4,000 children, young people and their families across the UK. CLDF has been supporting children and families with liver disease for over 40 years. The charity was founded by a family who had lost their son to liver disease. The experience of living

with childhood liver disease, and the impact that this has on children and their families, remains at the heart of our work. The CLDF was instrumental in getting three UK centres of excellence recognised for paediatric liver care, which has resulted in improved child liver transplant success rates. The British Medical Association awarded them for their children’s information literature and their Yellow Alert campaign is endorsed by leading UK health organisations, including The Royal College of Nursing. Their vision is a world in which young adults and children are not limited by their liver disease; where childhood liver diseases will be understood, prevented and treated effectively, so that every child affected achieves their full potential. How to make a donation to the Children’s Liver Disease Foundation If you’d like to make a donation to support the work of the Children’s Liver Disease Foundation please visit childliverdisease.org/donate

LIONHEART Offering the expert and confidential support that can help someone through a difficult time. When you ring for help, you’ll speak to one of LionHeart’s highly experienced support officers who will take time to listen to your circumstances and then work out what can help. lionheart.org.uk SIFA FIRESIDE SIFA Fireside provides an ever-evolving range of responsive services, including homelessness intervention, recovery and prevention. sifafireside.co.uk RSVP – RAPE & SEXUAL VIOLENCE PROJECT RSVP believes everyone deserves a life free from sexual violence and abuse. The charity supports people who have been subjected to sexual violence and abuse to thrive and enjoy a future of hope and confidence. rsvporg.co.uk ST BASILS Are you aged 16-25 and homeless, at risk or just in need of some housing advice? St Basils can help! stbasils.org.uk BIRMINGHAM MUSEUMS TRUST The Trust oversees nine extraordinary venues that provide a fascinating glimpse into Birmingham’s rich and vibrant past and showcase world class museum collections. birminghammuseums.org.uk

AUTUMN 2023

Library

Centenary Square

Paradise development

T EE

Paradise development

BT Tower

LU D

G AR

G AT

Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery

CHAMBERLAIN SQUARE

Two Chamberlain Square

One Chamberlain Square

Paradise

NEWHALL SQUARE

EA T

AR L

H AL

A SW

RE ET

E RE

Post Office

Louisa Ryland House

Council House

The Lightwell

Birmingham School of Art

Town Hall

Station entrance open 7am – 7pm

The city’s civic heart is home to the Town Hall, Council House and Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery. The square is used all year round for a wide variety of events.

Victoria Square

L CO

103 Colmore Row

Hotel Du Vin

COLMORE BUSINESS DISTRICT

CHURCH STREET SQUARE

W AR

NEW S

Birmingham Cathedral

The Grand Hotel

AG E

New Street New Street Grand Central Station

W EST

R ST

T EE CO

For national and regional rail services, Metro and northwest bound bus services.

One Snowhill

Snow Hill Interchange

Snow Hill Station

H LL

ST RE

’W

Cannon House

Two Colmore Square

The Colmore Building

Corporation Street

For national and regional rail services and southwest bound bus services.

New Street Interchange

The Minories Bull Street

COLMORE SQUARE

Wesleyan Building

The green heart of the city centre around the historic cathedral is a place to relax and enjoy the many cafés and pubs nearby.

Cathedral Square

Great Western Arcade

B4 Car Park

NCP Royal Angus

Rotunda

UNI

EET

ROTUNDA SQUARE

STR

Martineau Place

OLD SQUARE

Birmingham Children’s Hospital EE

Children’s A&E

T BE

PRI

ORY

Q’W

CAR

Moor Street Station

For national and regional rail services and southeast bound bus services.

Moor Street Interchange

Bullring

The Square

THE

For northeast bound bus services.

Bull Street/Priory Queensway Interchange

Law Courts

AT E

T RE E

AY SW EN U

TR E

L AL W RN

A3 T EE

ST R

Two Snowhill

ALL

E P T E MP L

Holiday Inn Express

St Chads Three Snowhill

REET

LE ST

TEMP

ET RE

ST N O N CA N

DLE

TRE

COLMORE BUSINESS DISTRICT

BENNET

STRE

L MP

HIGH

NEE

S SA

RE ET

ET H RC

ST PH S PA

RY RE

RI O

CO R

ST THE

AUTUMN 2023

N S

TI O

AN ST

G E

M N

US T

EA TI O EE

N S

W IN

H R ST

LTO

T L

TS HILL