Benjamin Zephaniah will be ‘celebrated’ in a free exhibition in the city center this summer

A new exhibition will celebrate the life and legacy of Birmingham’s beloved poet Benjamin Zephaniah. The outdoor exhibition called “Benjamin Zephaniah – The Brighter Flame” will be held in Victoria Square in July.

Poet and Peaky Blinders star Zephaniah, from Handsworth, died aged 65 in December 2023 after being diagnosed with a brain tumour. A major mural has been painted in Handsworth Park to commemorate his life, with plans for a “long-lasting” tribute to Zephaniah elsewhere in the city currently under discussion.

‘Benjamin Zephaniah – The Brighter Flame’ will feature large-scale archival black and white photographs of Zephaniah by Birmingham-based artist Pogus Caesar, plus a series of poems and photographs of Zephaniah and Caesar taken from their first project large scale, “Handsworth”. 1985 Revised.’ The free exhibition, co-curated by Pogus Caesar and art historian Ruth Millington, will run from July 5-31, 2024.

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As well as more than 20 specially commissioned artworks on display in cabinets in Victoria Square, flags designed in his memory will fly high on Colmore Row. A Q&A with David O Springer, Zephaniah’s brother, plus poetry recitals from spoken word performers will also take place at The Exchange on Broad Street.

‘Benjamin Zephaniah – The Brighter Flame’ is funded by Colmore BID, Business Improvement District for the commercial district. Co-curator Ruth Millington said: “Benjamin Zephaniah was a true giant of literature, with a lyrical prose and delivery that drew attention to issues facing so many.

“It is only right that his work should continue to be recognized and celebrated, especially in a format that takes his work to the streets through powerful photographs and images. I hope the Bright Flame continues to honor the memory of Benjamin Zephaniah in his hometown.”

Legendary Birmingham photographer Pogus Caesar said: “Benjamin Zephaniah was a local and international legend, an ordinary man who achieved extraordinary things. This exhibition, open to all, aims to tell a chapter in the multi-layered story of this humble man. Through talent and sheer determination, Benjamin Zephaniah proved what was possible and claimed the title “Son of Birmingham”.

Melanie Williams, Board Director at Colmore BID and Chair of the Outstanding Places Working Group added: “It is our honor to fund this fantastic free exhibition, The Brighter Flame, in tribute to Benjamin Zephaniah. Taking place in our district and across the city, we are proud to host this free exhibition celebrating Zephaniah’s talent and contribution to Birmingham’s artistic landscape. We look forward to the local community joining us this July to honor his memory and creativity.”

‘Benjamin Zephaniah – The Brighter Flame’ can be visited for free from 5-31 July 2024 in Victoria Square and along Colmore Row in Birmingham City Centre.