Visual Arts

Over the past months, several groups of residents in North Smethwick have been working with community arts organisation Multistory to consider what makes their community unique. They've been taking part in workshops to create images that symbolise what the area means to them.

Multistory workshops

The project, titled ‘Telling Tales: Alight’, is focused on celebrating the diverse nature of North Smethwick, its people and its heritage.

The workshops have resulted in an animated film, produced by local artist Jaspal Sehint, which will appear as a light drawing on the roof of The Hawthorns Metro Station.

Multistorey say that the animation takes viewers on a journey, focusing on the history and heritage of North Smethwick.

The switch-on

Adrian Goldberg will switch on the film's projector in front of residents and guests, at the station on Thursday 8 November. Immediately before that, guests will also have the opportunity to see some of the residents’ ideas and storyboards for the animation, showcased for one night only at the Brasshouse Community Centre.

Multistory workshops

Rich Franks, Media Artist at Multistory: “We have been working with residents since August, exploring the area and using disposable cameras to document objects, locations and local symbols for inclusion in the final animation.

"The animation really reflects the hard work and vision of the residents who have taken part”.

More information

For further information on the project visit www.multistory.org.uk

Telling Tales: Alight has been developed and delivered by Multistory, a community arts organisation that engages communities, organisations and artists in Sandwell, the Black Country, the region and nationally through creative approaches to learning, health and regeneration. The project is funded by the Neighbourhood Renewal Fund and was commissioned by Sandwell Council’s Town Teams division.