Birmingham’s creative quarter has always been a hub of energy, art, design, and heritage. Now, a vibrant new public artwork – The Digbeth Colour Palette – has taken centre stage at the Custard Factory and Gibb Street, paying tribute to the area’s rich history and unique character. This striking installation serves as both a love letter to Digbeth and an invitation to explore its diverse and colourful past.
A palette inspired by Digbeth’s history
Each shade in The Digbeth Colour Palette represents a key landmark or historical element of the area, creating a dynamic and deeply meaningful piece of public art. Here’s a closer look at what each colour signifies:
Stop Lock Black
This deep, historic black represents the Grade II Listed Warwick Bar stop lock and the Banana Warehouse. A nod to Digbeth’s industrial past, this shade highlights the waterways that once played a crucial role in Birmingham’s economic growth.
Old Crown Oak
A warm and traditional hue, Old Crown Oak pays homage to The Old Crown, Birmingham’s oldest pub, which has stood at the heart of Digbeth since 1368. This beloved establishment is a cornerstone of the community, offering hospitality for centuries.
Welcomes Red
Bold and full of warmth, this red reflects the “A Hundred Thousand Welcomes” sign, a tribute to the late Sister Sabina, founder of SIFA Fireside, a charity that has long supported Birmingham’s homeless community. Her handwritten message, now immortalised in art, continues to spread kindness and inclusivity.
Typhoo Tea
A rich brown, this shade represents the iconic Typhoo Tea Factory on Bordesley Street, once a centre of industry and soon to be transformed into the new home of the BBC in Birmingham. This transformation reflects Digbeth’s ability to embrace change while honouring its past.
Custard Yellow
Possibly the most recognisable shade in the palette, Custard Yellow is a tribute to Bird’s Custard Factory, once a bustling centre of food production and now an energetic creative hub. The Custard Factory continues to be a vibrant space for artists, entrepreneurs, and cultural events.
Street Art Silver
This shimmering hue represents the countless pieces of street art that make Digbeth one of the most visually stunning districts in Birmingham. From large-scale murals to hidden gems, this silver symbolises the creativity that adorns its walls.
Flyover Steel
A cool, metallic grey, Flyover Steel is a tribute to the Camp Hill Flyover, a once-iconic road structure that added a slightly crazy element (it was only intended to be temporary!) to Digbeth’s landscape and road network.
No. 50 Navy
Finally, this deep navy honours the famous No. 50 bus route, a lifeline for commuters travelling through Digbeth along Bradford Street.
A celebration of identity and creativity
The Digbeth Colour Palette is more than just a piece of public art, it’s a celebration of the area’s identity, a reflection of its industrial past, cultural vibrancy, and creative spirit. We hope this installation becomes a popular landmark, inspiring both residents and visitors to explore and appreciate the colours of Digbeth in new ways.
So, the next time you find yourself wandering through the Custard Factory and Gibb Street, take a moment to admire this vibrant tribute to Digbeth’s history and heart. What’s your favourite colour in the palette?