World’s biggest ever artwork unveiled in Birmingham

The first piece of the biggest artwork in the world has been unveiled in Birmingham.

Created by artist Luke Burton, The Connection is set to span all four corners of the Earth - and you can buy a piece and help raise money for charity.

The first piece was revealed at Broadway Plaza at Ladywood Middleway.

Sections of The Connection will be unveiled in 195 countries to create a huge link spanning the globe - representing every race, gender and nationality.

The project has already helped The Salvation Lifehouse in Birmingham, the Charlie Ramsey Research Fund, University Hospitals Birmingham Charity and Dreams and Wishes Charity.

Many other local charities will benefit from the initiative. Broadway Casino started things off with a massive £5,000 donation.

And Broadway Plaza is launching a number of initiatives to support The Connection fundraising for the local community.

What does the The Connection artist say about the project?

Luke Burton, artist, said: “The Connection is the world’s largest work of art. It represents all races, nationalities and gender and the world.

“It’s being placed around the world in 195 countries and it’s, basically, a wall of support.

“The reaction that I hope it gets is to inspire people, make a difference, help other people. Support one another, really.”

What do The Connection supporters say about the artwork?

Leading the unveiling, and also there to show his support was Heart FM DJ Ed James.

He said: “It’s unbelievable. I love a Birmingham first.

“So basically you buy a brick. You can engrave your name, or a friend’s name or a school’s name or whatever on the actual brick which will form part of the installation and that is how it will support all the charities that we are absolutely right behind here.

“So, it’s up to everybody to join up and get behind this - and let’s raise some cash.”

What do the charities benefiting from the funds raised say about The Connection?

Sandra Ramsey from the Charlie Ramsey Research Fund and Sophie Westlake from the University Hospitals Birmingham Charity said they were among the organisations that were due to benefit from the funds raised through The Connection.

Sophie said: “We’ve both been chosen as the charity partners, so the money raised will be split between the great charities.

“Sandra said: “It’s given a wonderful opportunity for a very small charity like ours to get to get together and raise funds.”

A final word from Broadway Plaza...

Natal Chapman, from Broadway Plaza, said: “We’re really pleased. We do see ourselves as part of the community. Obviously we’re an entertainment and leisure complex.

“We’re here for families, adults, for everybody and we want to bring our communities together. So doing a project like this is ideal.

“A very proud day. We’re so pleased to be involved and I wish Luke every success.”

For more information and to be part of The Connection and purchase your space go to the dedicated The Connection website

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