Digbeth’s transformation from a post-industrial wasteland into Birmingham’s coolest neighbourhood needs to be documented. And oh look, it has. A new exhibition celebrating the remarkable transformation of the Creative Quarter will open at The Dome at Zellig on Friday, November 20.
‘A Celebration of Digbeth: The Making of Birmingham’s Creative Quarter’ will take you on a journey through Digbeth’s history: Its industrial beginnings, the redevelopment of the Custard Factory, the emergence of its creative community during the 1990s and 2000s, and its lasting cultural influence today.
In particular, the exhibition will examine the pioneering role of developer Bennie Gray—the man behind bringing Alfred Bird’s famous custard business back to life—alongside the architects, artists and businesses whose work helped establish Digbeth’s new reputation as Birmingham’s creative quarter.
The exhibition will bring together historic photographs, stories, personal reflections and archive material to document Digbeth’s evolution from an industrial heartland into a thriving centre for culture, creativity and independent enterprise—but it’s only on until Sunday, December 20.
“Looking after Zellig for the past 11 years, I’ve had the privilege of witnessing Digbeth’s evolution and the growth of its incredible creative community,” said Michelle Irving, General Manager, Zellig. “What makes this place special isn’t just its buildings or history, but its people, ideas and independent spirit.”
“Zellig has always been about creating opportunities, giving creative people and independent businesses somewhere to belong, grow and thrive. I’m incredibly proud to have played a part in Digbeth’s story, and hope its unique character continues to shape its future.”
‘A Celebration of Digbeth: The Making of Birmingham’s Creative Quarter’ has been curated by Prof. Carl Chinn MBE, Lisa Meyer, Matt Watkins, Shannon Davies and Alexander Powell.
