How to Hide in Public Places - the Sculpture of William Bloye // Neil Holland

Sun 30th Sept 2pm

Meet: St Pauls Square, Hockley B3 1QU

If you know Birmingham, you will probably know the work of William Bloye, though you may not know it. Bloye was the most prolific public sculptor in Birmingham in the Twentieth Century, yet his name nowadays is virtually unknown. His stylish work graces numerous public and private buildings around the city and further afield including libraries, churches, hospitals, schools, museums and pubs.

This tour will take in some of Bloye’s most significant works across the city centre as well as some lesser-known and newly re-discovered pieces.

On the way we will also consider Bloye’s impact on the city and the legacy of his life and career as an artist and a teacher.

About Neil:

Since moving to Birmingham 18 years ago Neil has developed a passion for the place, its people, its public art and its architecture.
He has been doggedly pursuing the work and life of William Bloye for several years and hopes to make more people recognise and appreciate this artist's contribution to the city.

At other times Neil can be found baking at Loaf Bakery & Cookery School in Stirchley, running marathons and embarrassing his children. 

• Footwear suitable for urban walking and weather-appropriate clothing essential.
• Accessible - no steps. Some narrow pavements.
• How to Hide in Public Places first ran during the second Still Walking Festival in 2013. Its original title was 'Hidden in Plain Sight', which was later used by another William Bloye themed walk by another guide. The revised title comes from this 1956 article in the Birmingham Post: