A Walsall College Art and Design student will see his creative work exhibited in Birmingham city centre as part of The Big Hoot Birmingham 2015 project, the biggest ever mass-participation, public art event in the city. The college sponsored a small owl sculpture, in aid of Birmingham Children’s Hospital, and offered one student the chance to get their creative design featured on the sculpture for thousands of residents and visitors to admire over the summer as part of a wider exhibition.
A number of owls, stunningly decorated by artists, community groups, students and teachers and generously sponsored by local businesses, will be taking up perch right across Birmingham in parks, streets and public spaces for 10 weeks from 20 July 2015. The sculptures are expected to attract thousands of local, regional and national visitors.
The college held an internal competition for Level 2 Art and Design students to submit their ideas and Shamol Ali’s design was chosen as the winner. Shamol, 21, has spent the last month bringing his design to life on the sculpture, which he has titled ‘The Power Within’, as part of his final major project. He said: “My design is inspired by the movement of human muscles, especially in our arms and hands; as a deaf person who uses British Sign Language, this has always fascinated me.
“I have also been influenced by my research into imagery from Greek mythology and the first Olympic Games as they are all about the human body and the power of moving muscles.”
He added: “I’m really excited at the thought of thousands of people seeing my work. This is only my first year at Walsall College and I never would have dreamed I’d be given such an amazing opportunity.
“In September I’ll be moving on to the Level 3 Graphic Design course as that’s the area I want to pursue a career in and this is great experience to put on my CV.”
Curriculum Manager for Art and Design at Walsall College, Alan Tyler said: “We are always looking for innovative ways to ensure students get as much exposure as possible for their work during their time at the college, whether it be in the local community or to industry professionals. We are committed to ensuring that students have a wealth of experience in showcasing their creativity to support their progression to further education or into employment.”
