The Solihull Colour Palette, proudly displayed in Touchwood Shopping Centre, celebrates Solihull through a series of colour swatches showcasing the borough’s rich history, influential people and beautiful places.
Jointly funded by the Government’s UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) and Touchwood, The Solihull Colour Palette on Cloister Walk boasts 32 different colour references.
Local people, members of the business community, historians and archivists were invited to help shape the development of The Solihull Colour Palette by suggesting the people, places, objects, and things they associate with the borough. Birmingham-based artist, Stacey Barnfield, then turned these suggestions into the final artwork.
Colours include Shirley Poppy Red which represents the metal poppies on display in the centre of the roundabout on Stratford Road; Moors Yellow for our beloved Solihull Moors FC; Chelmsley Bluebell to remember the deep violet-blue of Chelmsley Wood’s bluebell woods that were once so popular with day trippers; and BHX Blue which gives a special nod to our major international airport.
Councillor Wazma Qais, Cabinet Member for Communities at Solihull Council, said: “The Solihull Colour Palette is a vibrant visual representation of why Solihull is so unique. It’s wonderful how the different colours not only represent the beautiful places in our borough but also the special moments in history and the influential people that helped to make our borough what it is today.
“It’s a fantastic snapshot which tells the story of our borough for both residents and visitors alike. I encourage people to take a look the next time they are in the town centre.”
Lucy Burnett, Marketing Manager at Touchwood commented: "We’re proud to showcase The Solihull Colour Palette at Touchwood, celebrating the town’s rich history and local pride.
“The iconic Touchwood brick features a stunning terracotta earthy tone, exuding a warm and inviting glow that perfectly captures the centre’s enduring charm and welcoming spirit. It’s exciting to think that Touchwood has been part of Solihull for so long, and we’re thrilled to continue supporting creative initiatives like this one."
Artist, Stacey Barnfield added: “I love seeing the colour palettes popping up across the country, especially those that feature suggestions from local people in each of the areas in which they appear. It is this local interest and pride in places that makes the designs so much more special.
“As a former Solihull College of Technology student, nothing makes me prouder than seeing The Solihull Colour Palette at Touchwood. I hope it might provide a little bit of inspiration for the next generation of art and design students in the borough to create new artworks and typographic designs.”
There are plans to develop the palette to create colourful wayfinding and maps, new artworks inspired by the swatches and more. This will be a great way to engage and encourage a new generation of Solihull artists and designers.
See The Solihull Colour Palette on display at Cloister Walk, Touchwood. For more information on all the colour references go to the Visit Solihull website.
Learn more about The Colour Palette Company.