WELCOME TO THE ALLEY BIRD
On Saturday 18th March 2023, local residents met for the ‘opening’ of the mural which now adorns the wall in the alleyway between Antrobus Road and Laurel Road in Handsworth.
Naomi Paul, Chair of Antrobus Road Residents’ Action Group (ARRAG), formally opened the proceedings. Also present were the artist himself Bunny Bread (Create Not Destroy), Neil De Costa (BCC Neighbourhood Development & Support Unit), Handsworth Ward Councillor Hendrina Quinnen, Sonia Hyman (Vice Chair of Friends of Handsworth Park), and a group of young Squirrel Scouts who participate in street cleaning exercises. The local police also came in support, and the fire brigade was invited but were called out on duty. Helping out were other members of ARRAG: Pauline (Vice Chair), Haroon (Secretary), Gaelle (Treasurer), Ruth (Honorary Vice Chair), Sarah, Kezia, Linda, George, Liz, Mary, and many others.
The sun made an appearance on this dry day, the first in a very rainy period. This allowed local people to mingle, chat, and enjoy the samosas and drinks offered. The group intends to install a planter at the foot of the mural, which will make it even more visually arresting.
In addition, Antrobus Road was adorned with the pictures the children had created during Bunny’s workshop at ARRAG’s third day of action on 22.10.22 at St Andrews. See:http://www.insidehandsworth.co.uk/2022/10/arrag-has-done-it-again-but-even-better/
It is hoped that the glorious bird, the planter and the children’s pictures will go some way to encourage residents and non-residents alike to look after our environment. They can but try, and we hope for the best for this determined group.
There is more information about the process of making the mural here: http://www.insidehandsworth.co.uk/2023/03/welcome-to-the-alley-bird/?fbclid=IwAR0fNcofCTTK7H-dHIJ-Xm0wiBQonxS936Lf9-FSLdCeYZXEN4yaXE98ueA
And a complete set of photos taken on the day on:
and
§
Mural ‘Grand Opening’ on Saturday 18th March 2023, 11am-1pm
In the alleyway between Antrobus Road and Laurel Road, Handsworth, Birmingham B21 9NZ
As part of BirminghamCity Council’s ‘Celebrating Communities‘ scheme, Antrobus Road Residents Action Group (ARRAG)* asked celebrated mural artist Bunny Bread** to beautify an unloved fly-tipping hotspot in one of Antrobus Road’s alleyways.
Before:
After:
It is hoped that this will increase pride in our environment and a desire to look after it, as well as encourage litter droppers to stop acting selfishly. Fingers crossed.
Come and meet Bunny, BCC staff, local councillor, fire brigade, police and ARRAG members.
Free samosas and soft drinks.
*Email: arraginfo@gmail.com
Twitter: @AntrobusB21
** Bunny Bread is a member of the CreateNotDestroy collective, famous for their street art and murals. Bunny has worked in Lozells, Handsworth Park, Erdington, Edgbaston, and further afield in London and abroad. He creates art which reflects the activism and empowerment of the local communities.
Watch the bird’s evolution:
Related Posts
HANDSWORTH SOCIALS →
THESE STREETS ARE MADE FOR WALKING, pt 2 →
THE BATTLE OF SALTLEY GATE, 50TH ANNIVERSARY →
