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Community Engagement & Planning
DOWNLOW G37
IIn the summer of 2021, I had the privilege of contributing to THE DOWNLOW, a vibrant commissioned project forming part of the Gallery 37 Arts Trail. This initiative brought together ten community co-designed murals in Lozells, showcasing the power of collaborative creativity. The project was delivered in partnership with Punch Records, Bunny from ICreate Not Destroy, and his talented team of artists, including Jason Caballero, Simone Linton, and Remi Rough.
The project was funded by National Lottery, Saathi House and Punch Records and the Active Communities, who are part of The Active Wellbeing Society via Sport England.
Planning and Coordination
​One of my key responsibilities was to identify and research property ownership for potential mural sites, based on a list curated by the artists during their scoping of the area. This involved leveraging my network within Birmingham City Council to gather detailed information about the desired walls and properties, as well as coordinating cleanup efforts to prepare these locations for the artwork.
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With these foundational steps complete, we established a structured timeline and adhered to key deadlines, ensuring the seamless execution of the project. My role also encompassed supporting the development of the proposed art trail walk route, aligning logistics with the creative vision.

Community Engagement
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Once the proposed images and ideas were compiled, they were presented to local community groups and leaders for approval to ensure they resonated with the community and avoided causing offense. Some images, like the Muslim girl on a skateboard, came about by chance. Bunny saw her skating in George's Park, spoke to her parents, and photographed her, leading to a mural that many local women found inspiring. During the process, a local nurse, Joanna, shared her story about working in the NHS after emigrating from Ghana, which led to her inclusion in the final NHS mural, further solidifying the project’s deep community connection.
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I facilitated introductions between Bunny, Punch Records, and local schools, organizations, and leaders in Lozells, connecting them with groups like Aspire and Succeed, Friends of George’s Park, and Councillor Waseem Zaffer. Maintaining communication with community groups and businesses throughout the project was essential for garnering support and spreading awareness across the ward.
The project became a true reflection of the community’s stories and identity, leaving a lasting impact on Lozells.

