About the project
Believe in Balsall Heath is a transformative community arts and heritage initiative created by a consortium of five local organisations to celebrate the people, culture and history of Balsall Heath. Following the 750th anniversary of the area in 2025, we invite everyone to join us in honouring its rich heritage and vibrant diversity.
A key part of the project is a series of new street-based artworks exhibited across Balsall Heath, inspired by the area’s rich history, culture and heritage. Birmingham artist Faisal Hussain was commissioned to produce artwork which is displayed on 24 banners installed on Moseley Road, Edward Road and Clifton Road. Hussain’s 5 designs are inspired by the artist’s consultation with people from the consortium. Read more about each design here.
The banners will be in place for 2 years and launched on 12 September 2026 as part of Balsall Heath Second Saturday. The launch celebration, held at MIAH Foundation included an opportunity to meet Faisal Hussain, hear about the inspiration behind his designs, and enjoy music from the Oriental Star Agencies collection.
From the artist
“I’m an artist based in Birmingham. My work spans public art, film, archive, sculpture, audio and text. I create work that questions perceptions, challenges lazy stereotypes and highlights missing histories and overlooked stories. I’m particularly excited to be working in Balsall Heath as I have generational roots there - from my grandfather sharing a house with workers in the 60s, to my mother’s shop on Stratford Road in the 90s, to working in my family business in the 00s. I have memories of music, food, Qur’an classes, functions and raves here. It’s a special place - often overlooked—and I’m looking forward to creating something that reflects its people, past, and future.”
Faisal Hussain
More about the project
Believe in Balsall Heath also involves the installation of new heritage information boards in multiple locations; the relaunch of The Heathan community e-newspaper; a series of creative workshops led by The GAP and MIAH Foundation; and a number of new planters for local streets.
Project partners
Believe in Balsall Heath is a Cultural Action Area project funded by Birmingham City Council. This collaborative project brings together The Old Print Works, MIAH Foundation, The GAP Arts Project, Fruit & Nut Village and Balsall Heath Local History Society.
Find out more
Keep up to date with what’s on around Balsall Heath through The Heathan community e-newspaper.
If you have interest in the following areas of work please contact the relevant organisation:
Local History: Balsall Heath Local History Society
Youth Activities: The GAP Arts Project
Culture and Community: The Old Print Works / MIAH Foundation
Environmental: Fruit & Nut Village
Your information will only be used to respond to your enquiry, help us understand engagement with the project to improve our work and for reporting about the project. You can request to have your data removed at any time.