‘I never thought such significant artwork would be in Handsworth’: Locals react to Benjamin Zephaniah tribute

Handsworth Park in Birmingham became the canvas for a vibrant tribute to the late poet Benjamin Zephaniah, as a colourful mural was unveiled.

Created by Erdington artist Bunny Bread and cartoonist Hunt Emerson, the mural adorns the historic Sons of Rest building, paying homage to Zephaniah, a Handsworth native who passed away at the age of 65 due to a brain tumour in December 2023.

The artwork, unveiled on Sunday, April 14, has quickly become a focal point for the community, drawing visitors from near and far.

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Eleven, a resident of Walsall, made a special journey to the park, driven by a personal connection to the contributing artist and a deep appreciation for Zephaniah’s work.

Her visit was not just about witnessing the art but also about finding solace, as she too had lost a son, early this year. Eleven from Walsall said: “I think it’s a really beautiful piece and adds a lot of light and life to the park.

“The reason why we’ve initially come to see it is, is that my son also passed away from a brain tumour and the person who helped contribute on the part of piece, she actually did my son’s casket as well, so I just came to show a lot of love”

The mural also caught the attention of Bollywood singer Tony, who found the piece reminiscent of the Gurdwara temple’s art, where the significance of the message behind the painting resonates deeply with viewers.

He said, “The piece vibrant colours and messages remind me of the Gurdwara temple. It’s a powerful reminder that art can go beyond boundaries and unite us in thought and emotion.”

Local, Toni, who frequents the park for his daughter’s daily school pickup, expressed his admiration for the mural. Having grown up in Guyana, where colourful buildings are commonplace, Toni found that the mural’s location in Handsworth held a special significance due to the area’s rich cultural tapestry.

“Seeing such a colourful tribute in Handsworth is like a piece of home for me. It’s a celebration of our diverse roots and a reminder that no matter where we come from, we’re part of Birmingham’s community.”

The mural , a visual spectacle and a celebration of Handsworth’s cultural diversity and varied livelihoods. Featuring portraits of Benjamin Zephaniah and his powerful quotes, the artwork serves as a beacon of pride for the community.

Ashley, a frequent runner in Handsworth Park said, “I never thought such a significant artwork would take place in Handsworth, as it’s a place many seem to turn their back on when it comes to showcasing beauty. So I definitely take pride in the fact that, a well known public figure who once lived here, now will be remember for his part in Handsworth, for many years to come because of this painting.”

Benjamin Zephaniah’s enduring influence as an advocate for literature and the arts has deeply enriched the cultural landscape of Birmingham and the wider UK. His contributions have fostered a profound sense of community pride within Handsworth.

Beyond his literary achievements, Zephaniah’s role in the acclaimed ‘Peaky Blinders’ series and his activism have carved a lasting legacy in the heart of Birmingham, especially in Handsworth, the neighbourhood that shaped his formative years.

In a world where cultural diversity is often met with challenges, Handsworth’s embrace of this mural demonstrates the community’s commitment to celebrating its multicultural heritage and the influential figures who have shaped it.

The mural is not just a tribute to a beloved poet, but a reminder of the unity and strength found in diversity, echoing Zephaniah’s own words and the community’s shared values.