Tom Hicks, an artist and academic art librarian at the University of Wolverhampton, has taken the Black Country by storm with his unique and captivating approach to art and photography. His work, which began as a simple smartphone project capturing the beauty and humor of the area, has evolved into a multifaceted creative endeavor that includes public art, filmmaking, and graphic design for local musicians. Hicks' latest project, a second volume of his book showcasing the typography, signage, and 'hidden beauty' of the Black Country, has been described by Led Zeppelin's Robert Plant as a 'startling study of our fractured, crazy place'.
Hicks' interest in psycho-geography, the effect of place on the human experience, is evident in his work. He explores the sense of place and identity in the Black Country, where some areas feel old and even ancient. His photographs capture historic signage on industrial units, reflecting the character and identity of the local people. Hicks' work is not just a history project; it's a way of documenting the place as it is now, like having a dialogue with the landscape.
One of the most fascinating aspects of Hicks' work is his ability to translate his ideas into different mediums. He has created public art, such as the sculpture 'You Are Here' at a transport hub in Halesowen, and will be part of the new Dudley Interchange project. His work with local musicians, including the band Big Special, has resulted in band logos and album cover art that reflect the Black Country's identity. Hicks' son, Alfie, has also worked on the graphics, demonstrating the family's collaborative approach to art.
Hicks' book offers an insider's view of the Black Country to an international audience. The second volume, which mirrors the 'no-nonsense design of old factory catalogues', is a testament to his unique perspective on the area. Hicks' work is not just about capturing the beauty of the Black Country; it's about celebrating the handmade and the overlooked, contributing to a broader movement of artists reclaiming the local as a site of creative meaning.
In my opinion, Tom Hicks' work is a refreshing and inspiring take on the Black Country. His ability to capture the essence of the area through his art and photography is truly remarkable. Hicks' work invites us to explore the relationship between place and identity, and to appreciate the beauty and humor that can be found in the most unexpected places. Personally, I think his work is a testament to the power of art to transform and inspire, and I look forward to seeing what he creates next.
