Birmingham Colmore is delighted to announce that artist Ben Stephenson has been selected to create the new George Shaw public artwork, a landmark public art commission celebrating one of Birmingham’s most influential yet little-known pioneers.
The artwork forms part of our George Shaw project, led by the Placemaking Working Group in collaboration with photographic historian Jo Gane, whose PhD research into George Shaw has helped bring his remarkable story back into the spotlight.
Following a nationwide open call for artists, six talented artists were shortlisted and invited to develop proposals for the commission. Each artist offered a unique interpretation of George Shaw’s extraordinary legacy, exploring his contributions as a photographer, chemist, inventor, patent agent and advocate for Birmingham’s industrial innovation. The shortlisted proposals were then reviewed by an expert selection panel before Ben Stephenson’s design was chosen for the commission.
Ben’s proposal, ‘Afterimage’, layers historical and contemporary images of Birmingham embedded within glass panels, creating an artwork that transforms as people move past it. Using precision engraving on both sides of the glass, the design combines George Shaw’s pioneering photography with the city’s architecture, industry and innovation. The transparent composition allows trams, pedestrians and the changing cityscape beyond to become an integral part of the artwork, creating a living connection between Birmingham’s past and present.
The completed artwork will be installed on the glass panels at the Town Hall Metro stop and is due to be unveiled in early 2027, becoming a permanent addition to Birmingham’s public realm.
Speaking about the commission, Ben Stephenson said:
“It is an honour to realise this tribute to George Shaw. ‘Afterimage’ treats the glass as a physical volume, merging early metallurgy with the capture of light. I hope this installation offers pedestrians a highly tactile and lasting connection to Birmingham’s history.”
The George Shaw project has been developed by Birmingham Colmore’s Placemaking Working Group as part of its commitment to creating engaging public spaces that celebrate the city’s heritage, culture and creativity. Working alongside Jo Gane, whose extensive research has revealed George Shaw’s significant contribution to Birmingham’s photographic and industrial history, the project aims to ensure his legacy is recognised by future generations through a lasting public artwork.
The commission builds on Birmingham Colmore’s wider programme of placemaking initiatives, which use art, culture and heritage to create meaningful experiences across the city centre while supporting contemporary artists and celebrating Birmingham’s rich history.
To explore the wider project, visit the George Shaw project page.
You can also view the shortlisted artists and their proposals to see the breadth of creative responses that inspired the final commission.
