Stourbridge Art Map officially launched to celebrate town’s creative heritage
Stourbridge BID has officially launched the new Stourbridge Art Map, a free guide designed to help residents and visitors explore the town’s rich artistic heritage and discover the wide range of artwork on display across Stourbridge.
The map debuted on Wednesday, March 18 at Tesco, Crown Centre, Stourbridge, where members of the public, local press, artists, partners and stakeholders came together to celebrate the project and its contribution to the town centre.
Hosted by Ben Thompson, BID Manager at Stourbridge BID, the event featured the two artists that collaborated with the BID to bring the project to life, Stacy Hammond and Cal the Artist, along with several artists featured on the map. Visitors were able to pick up free copies of the map, meet the artists and learn more about the inspiration behind the project.
The launch was attended by BID Board Directors, Dudley Council representatives, local councillors, business owners and organisations including The Red House Glass Cone, Stourbridge Glass Museum, Ruskin Glass Centre, Riverside House, King Edward’s and St Thomas’ Church.
The Stourbridge Art Map highlights key local art icons and artworks dating from 1857 to the present day, featuring a wide mix of art forms including music-related pieces, hand-drawn illustrations, metal sculpture, glass, mosaic work and more.
Led by Stourbridge BID, this project was developed collaboratively with Cal the Artist and illustrator Stacey Hammond to create a creative and accessible showcase of the town’s artistic character. Stourbridge BID secured funding through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF), with Cal leading the research and Stacey producing the map illustrations.
Aaron Powell, Chair of Stourbridge BID, said:
“We are delighted that Stourbridge BID has secured funding through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund to deliver a series of legacy projects that will enhance the town and celebrate its unique heritage. This funding has also enabled the BID to introduce new seasonal floral features, support additional art installations in the town centre, and contribute towards smartening tired shopfronts, helping to create a more vibrant and welcoming environment for businesses, residents and visitors alike.”
Cal the Artist said: “Working in partnership with Stourbridge BID on this project has been an absolute pleasure. Their support and commitment were instrumental in bringing the vision to life, alongside the talented Stacy Hammond.”
Stacy Hammond said:
“As a Stourbridge-born and based artist, I grew up walking past the town’s public artworks on my way to King Edward’s VI College, always dreaming of creating something here myself, so I was thrilled to collaborate on illustrating the map.”
Free copies of the Stourbridge Art Map are now available from the leaflet holder on the map wall in Tesco, the library, town hall, bus station and train station, giving people the chance to discover Stourbridge from a new perspective, follow the art trail at their own pace and celebrate the creativity that makes the town unique. Visitors are also encouraged to share their experience on social media and tag Stourbridge BID along with their favourite artists and artworks.
For further information, please visit: facebook.com/StourbridgeBID
