Birmingham Braille Lingo Podiums

August 2022

Location:

Birmingham, United Kingdom

Project Overview:

As part of the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games, I was honoured to collaborate with the charity Sense, whose work supports people living with complex disabilities, to create an interactive, inclusive art installation like no other. The project centred around the power of Braille and touch, and how sport, language, and identity can be explored by everyone—regardless of ability.

Workshops and Community Engagement:

I began by leading tactile workshops at Sense centres, engaging participants of all abilities in creative expression. We explored Birmingham’s iconic lingo—a celebration of local pride, heritage and voice. I also worked with a local junior school, introducing children to Braille in a fun, empowering way through the lens of the Commonwealth Games.

The Art Installation – Braille Podiums:

The result of these collaborations was the creation of six Braille podiums, crafted in three heights and medal colours—Gold, Silver, and Bronze. Each height served a purpose:

• Lower podiums were designed for children and those who wanted to physically stand on them.
• Higher podiums were specifically designed for wheelchair users, allowing equal access and interaction.

Each podium featured Braille inscriptions spelling out various Birmingham slang terms and the A–Z of medals. Visitors could find their initial and discover their “medal”—but the twist? You never knew if you’d get Gold, Silver or Bronze, turning it into a playful, tactile lottery that broke visual expectations.

Highlight Moment:

One unforgettable moment was when Perry the Bull, the official Birmingham 2022 mascot, interacted with the installation. Holding one of the medals with joy and pride, Perry truly brought the spirit of inclusion to life. It was a powerful visual—and tactile—symbol of how accessible art and sport can intersect to unite us all.

Legacy:

This project left a lasting impression on the communities involved. It wasn’t just about Braille. It was about equal access, local culture, and the joy of shared celebration—whether you experience the world through sight, sound, or touch.