An epic and powerful story created by the FAB5 to unite the 25.
Public works of art exemplify inclusion. There is no entrance fee nor an imposing threshold to cross. They are universally accessible at all times.
Much of what we recognise as ‘Art’ is housed in listed buildings in major cities. These architectural palaces are works of art themselves, but their history is rarely free from controversy.
The fruits of empire bought untold wealth into Britain, much of which was invested in culture.
Many of the museums and galleries were funded by taxes levied in colonial outposts. Little wonder statues raised in these institutions are rarely working class, female or people of colour. The oppressed were never destined to be immortalised in stone.
The FAB5 (left to right) Raaj Shamiji, Sculptor Luke Perry, Nats Perry, Haldin Wright and Pauline Bailey. Image by Jas Sani
The end of empire and post war saw Britain down, but not out. Just as soldiers from the colonies stood shoulder to shoulder with British soldiers, these very same people were called upon to help rebuild the nation. And rebuild they did. Together.
Here in Birmingham and the West Midlands, immigration has helped shape the environment and this is illustrated in the city’s newest piece of public art, ‘Forward Together’, which will undoubtedly make a brighter future.
Most of the 25 participants plus the FAB5. Image by Jas Sani
A team led by Black Country based Artist Luke Perry and Raaj Shamji from BCU (Birmingham City University) with artists Pauline Bailey, Nats Perry and H Wright have created a masterpiece which sits in the very heart of Birmingham.
The monument comprises twenty five ordinary everyday people who are extraordinary in their own ways and who all contributed to the creation. They are collectively pulling a chain lifting a shield with the city’s motto ‘Forward’ across the top and ‘Together’ along the bottom.
It pays homage to the citizens of our city region; those who were born here and those who came here. It salutes their collective efforts in creating the place we now all call home, shining a glowing torch, emitting a feeling of immense warmth on many Forgotten Generations.
‘Forward Together’ will sit in Victoria Square for twelve months before finding a permanent home.
I propose, not for this structure to be moved into a museum, but for a gallery to be build upon it. A gallery that showcases the achievements of everyone in society. One that demonstrates, to the world, that human beings can achieve anything the heart desires, together.
Panoramic view of the “Forward Together” monument at Victoria Square, Birmingham 4th July 2021
Panoramic view of the “Forward Together” monument at Victoria Square, Birmingham 4th July 2021
Three generations, Donald Campbell with son Gavin and Grandson Treyvan at the unveiling of the monument 4th July 2021
Mr Albert Jarrett World War 2 Veteran RAF, Mrs Shirley Jarrett and Donald Campbell Veteran RAF, Victoria Square, Birmingham
Veteran Donald Campbell, retired Warrant Officer RAF, next to his effigy as one of 25 people making up the monument 4th July 2021
Donald and wife Barbara at the factory in Cradley Heath, Birmingham, May 2021
Forward Together plaque story of the monument
For further information, visit: forwardtogetherbrum.co.uk
Images of the monument by Jas Sani: www.flickr.com/photos/
Compliments to Jas Sani’s article on THE ASIAN TODAY newspaper: www.theasiantoday.com/
Friends and colleagues of Donald at the unveiling of the monument 4th July 2021
