University News Last updated 12 March
A new exhibition celebrating the Black Country and exploring the "atmosphere of the region" has opened at Birmingham City University (BCU).
‘Black Country Type: Ay It’ is the work of artist Tom Hicks, who began taking photographs of the region in 2017, using a smart phone while travelling around on his bicycle.
“The exhibition explores the atmosphere of the region. It also touches upon local history and documents the changes to the region, as some of the buildings featured have since been demolished,” said Kingswinford-based Tom.
“Black Country Type challenges perceptions of the region. The colours and humour featured are very surprising to people. No-one has ever explored the region in depth and given it an opportunity to show what it’s really like.”
The exhibition, which runs until 27 March, features images of buildings, typography, handmade lettering and signs from around the Black Country.
There are also sculptures and paintings by other artists and craftspeople, as well a short film featuring a poem by local artist Liz Berry.
Tom says the typography used for the exhibition was not selected by random.
“It’s one that’s used in the Black Country for factory signs,” he explained. “For me, Black Country Type must be imbued with the atmosphere of the area.” 
Tom collaborated with students from BCU’s MA Visual Communication course to design the exhibition catalogue, which will be launched at a private viewing on Thursday, 20 March.
He also partnered with highly skilled technicians to try new mediums, like screen printing.
“We’ve got more ideas in the works,” said Tom. “I’ve even got a rare brick from a Black Country factory that we’re planning to scan, and 3D print!”
Professor Andrew Kulman, course leader for MA Visual Communications at BCU, is looking forward to continued collaborations with Tom.
“At BCU, we are committed to an approach of learning by doing,” said Professor Kulman. “By supporting the exhibition with a new catalogue and engaging in Tom’s research, our students have had valuable experience working with an iconic West Midlands artist and see their work on display.
“We want students to be inspired by the work done in the classroom and outside of it.”
Black Country Type: Ay It is free to view and runs from 12-27 March at BCU’s Parkside Gallery. A private viewing is being held on Thursday 20 March from 6-8pm.
A Lunchtime Artist Talk with Tom Hicks is also available to staff and students on Wednesday 26 March at 12:30pm. Book your place here.