Several months ago we introduced a project called Faith in Birmingham to create a new gallery exploring the range of faiths practiced in the city. We have been documenting our process through a series of blog posts to share the story of the gallery’s development.
As we approach the end of the year the theoretical process of planning the new gallery has begun to give way to more practical activities. The graphic design, transportation and conservation of objects, construction of plinths, to name just a few activities, are now underway.
We have also continued to meeting monthly with our wonderful Faith Working Group . The November meeting, kindly hosted by Birmingham Central Mosque, saw the group finalising the list of objects going on display. Members of the group have also been offering objects for the museum to loan to tell their personal stories of faith practice.
Our photographer for the project has also been out and about capturing images of key places of worship around the city and some of the activity that takes place inside.
Often the insides of the building are even more incredible than the outsides!
A selection of images will be used alongside the objects on display to help tell the story of their use and relationship to the city.
For example, items used in the serving of Langar, food provided freely for all to eat communally, at the Nishkam Gurdwara, pictured above, will be on display alongside images of them in use.
The construction of the exhibition begins in mid-January when we will be closing the current display to get everything ready. Wish us luck!
Faith in Birmingham opens fully in February 2016.
