The Tea Factory development will house the BBC from 2027 and it will feature two new artist commissions
A new ‘landmark public artwork’ has been commissioned for the site of the new BBC Birmingham headquarters.
The Tea Factory Development in Digbeth is set to feature two new artworks including a significant permanent installation in the newly-created square.
It’s not known yet what the art will look like once complete but organisers have unveiled their intentions for the pieces.
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Plans are for the BBC to move into its new home in 2027, with the old Typhoo factory transforming into a ‘cutting-edge, carbon-efficient production facility’.
The new square will feature a landmark work of art by Jasleen Kaur, winner of the Turner Prize in 2024.
It will ‘make visible the invisible aspects of the industrial histories of exchange and transfer of goods’, according to Digbeth arts organisation Grand Union and land developer Stoford.
The two organisations are working together to bring the artistic visions to life.
A second artwork is also set for The Tea Factory, with Birmingham experimental opera company Infinite Opera set to work on an ‘ambitious multi-site operatic community performance installation’ at the development.
It will ‘follow simultaneous narratives’ according to organisers, that are ‘inspired by the lived experiences of local residents, workers and the industrial and cultural heritage’ of Digbeth.
Jo Capper of Grand Union said: “We are so happy and excited to be working with Jasleen and Infinite Opera for these commissions, both new art works will help to develop deeper connections and meanings for Digbeth past, present and future as the wider area transforms and regenerates.”
Jasleen Kaur added: “It’s a huge responsibility to make something permanent for Digbeth at a time when most things in the area feel unstable.
“My hope is for an artwork to hold some of this complexity that’s being navigated by Grand Union and its communities.”
A spokesperson for Infinite Opera said: “We are thrilled to join Grand Union, and have the opportunity to work closely with the people living and working in Digbeth, delving into the area’s cultural past and future heritage, having grown as artists in this community.”
Stoford’s Matt Burgin commented: “We recognise the vital importance artists and organisations like Grand Union have in the redevelopment of the city.
“Digbeth is the perfect place to demonstrate this. We are really excited to be working with Turner Prize winner Jasleen Kaur and Birmingham based artists Infinite Opera.”
Sophy Jacob, project director for the BBC’s Tea Factory, said: “We’re delighted that Stoford have partnered with Digbeth arts organization Grand Union to get these two works commissioned and look forward to seeing how they enhance the local area as it develops.”