LEARN LIVE AND WORK VOLUNTEERING IN THE JQ BOXING CLEVER JQ FESTIVAL Meet the JQ businesses shaping people s minds

Transcription

1 JEWELLERY QUARTER LIVE LEARN WORK VISIT ISSUE EIGHT LEARN LIVE AND WORK Meet the JQ businesses shaping people s minds BOXING CLEVER JQ FESTIVAL 2016 KIM SHANNON, TEACHER AND OLYMPIC BOXER HOPEFUL THE QUARTER S ANNUAL CELEBRATION RETURNS VOLUNTEERING IN THE JQ WHAT OPPORTUNITIES ARE THERE? QUARTER LIFE THE OFFICIAL MAGAZINE FOR THE JEWELLERY QUARTER

2 IT S THAT ST PAUL S SMILE! Your dental treatment in expert hands. With over 20 years experience in dental implants and cosmetic dentistry, we offer comprehensive options for a lifetime of dental bliss. So why not contact us today to arrange a consultation and discover how we can help you achieve the smile you have always wanted? Studio 1, 51 St. Paul s Square, Birmingham B3 1QS info@dazzlingsmile.co.uk

3 Hello WELCOME TO THE EIGHTH ISSUE OF QUARTER LIFE THE OFFICIAL MAGAZINE FOR THE JEWELLERY QUARTER. ON THE COVER Julia Higginbottom is CEO of Rebel Uncut. Read our Education In the JQ supplement to find out more. NEXT ISSUE If you ve got an interesting story you d like us to consider for the next issue of Quarter Life, please chris@barquespr.co.uk The American historian Daniel J. Boorstin once said, Education is learning what you didn t even know you didn t know a quote which I felt was rather apt for edition 8 of Quarter Life. In our latest magazine, we shine a light on perhaps some of the more unconventional educational institutions Luke Crane, within the JQ. From upholstery classes JQBID manager and apprenticeships right through to music lessons and jewellery courses, we explore just a sample of the skills and knowledge you can develop right here to expand your horizons. It s not just about the skills you can learn, though; we also take a look at what you can give back to the community in our volunteering feature. It s been a year since our inaugural Jewellery Quarter Festival and we ll be welcoming it back once again this July (22 24). This year s festival is even bigger and better as we celebrate the unique blend of heritage, culture and community with a jampacked weekend filled with street food, theatre, dance, circus acts and much, much more. The celebrations will go far beyond the Golden Square this year too as we host a variety of family friendly activities in St Paul s Square, not to mention our ever popular Open Studios which offers a sneak peak behind the doors of some of the area s businesses. We have the full low-down on all the festivities over on page 10. Whilst the festival will be brimming with live music acts throughout the three days, Birmingham International Jazz & Blues Festival will take centre stage a few days earlier to get you in the mood. Join top musicians on our pop-up band stand in St Paul s Square between July. For full listings visit Ahead of the arrival of thousands of festival-goers, we ve been making sure the JQ is in tip-top shape. Floral displays now line the streets and major thoroughfares and the much-loved wicker angel has taken up its majestic place in the church square as part of Birmingham In Bloom. Whilst flowers go a long way in adding a dash of colour, we re also working hard to ensure the streets are clean too. This summer businesses and members of the community are being asked to join us in a big clean-up project across the Quarter. Find out more on page 19. With a summer full of fun for all ages, the Jewellery Quarter really is the place to be. So pull up a chair and dive right into edition 8 of Quarter Life. We hope you enjoy reading and exploring what the JQ has to offer. QUARTER LIFE ISSUE EIGHT 3

4 5 7 BOXING 8 CHANGING NEWS Feeling bookish Upstairs: the place to bean Summer Row back open JQ on the Edge CLEVER Teacher by day, Olympic boxer hopeful by night: Kim Shannon at Values Academy talks to Quarter Life. SPACES This issue, Changing Spaces focuses on new gallery and workshop Artisan Alchemy. OPEN STUDIOS Discover what goes on behind the JQ's closed doors as they open for JQ Festival. JQ FESTIVAL Find out what's happening over the JQ Festival weekend. ISSUE EIGHT Editor: Chris Brown chris@barquespr.co.uk Advertising: Luke Crane luke.crane@jqdt.org Design & Art Direction: Lee Haynes Photography: Lee Allen Meet the businesses shaping minds in the Quarter EDUCATION IN THE JQ EDUCATION IN THE QUARTER Contributors: Suzie Matthews CONTACT US 14 JQ IN BLOOM The Quarter looks blooming lovely of late - we reveal why. For Jewellery Quarter BID enquiries: info@jqdt.org I JQ Fiona Allan reveals why she loves living in the Jewellery Quarter LIFE THROUGH A LENS Capturing the highlights of the Jewellery Quarter. VOLUNTEERING IN THE JQ We take a look at some of the many exciting ways to get involved in the Quarter. LEARN IN THE JQ Looking to further your skill set? We take a look at the various opportunities available in the area. RBSA PRINT MAKING FESTIVAL Birmingham's first printmaking festival debuts in the JQ. WHAT S ON Dates for your diary. Designed and produced by: A magazine by: 4 QUARTER LIFE ISSUE EIGHT

5 NEWS Photo: Daniel Graves Feeling bookish Last year, the Jewellery Quarter was taken over by a parliament of giant owls, as part of The Big Hoot. This summer, we re pleased to reveal that the creators of The Big Hoot have announced a new arts trail for the West Midlands. More than 140 schools, community groups and cultural venues have signed up to take part in The Big Read, with nearly 200 decorated BookBenches sculptures shaped as open books set to turn heads across the region from Saturday, July 16. The BookBenches will form mini indoor art trails across Birmingham and beyond, making it the UK s biggest BookBench display to date for organisers Wild in Art. The Museum of the Jewellery Quarter will house five BookBenches until the end of the summer, when they will be returned to the schools and community groups that decorated them. Similar to last year s event, The Big Read will raise money for the Birmingham Children s Hospital Charity, this time for the Eye Believe appeal, which aims to raise 300,000 for its Eye Department. In October last year, The Big Hoot owls raised an owl-tstanding 508,035 for Birmingham Children s Hospital Charity s Star Appeal a 3.65million project to build the UK s first Rare Diseases Centre for children in Birmingham. To find out more about The Big Read and how you can get involved, visit UPSTAIRS: THE PLACE TO BEAN! Coffee fans in the Quarter rejoice a brew-lliant new coffee shop has opened on Water Street. Upstairs is more for the die-hard coffee fans than the coffee shop socialisers and mid-morning meet-ups, and if you re after a seat, you ll need to be quick. If you re looking for that perfectly percolated double espresso, be sure to pop into Upstairs. SUMMER ROW BACK OPEN! After two years of roadworks, Summer Row is now more accessible by foot and car. Visitors to the Jewellery Quarter can once again access their favourite Summer Row bars and restaurants, including Mechu, Après and Fleet Street Kitchen by car. There s good news for pedestrians, too those travelling from Brindleyplace, Symphony Hall and the Library can now access Summer Row by foot! If you haven t been for a while, Summer Row is well worth a visit, whatever the occasion. Indulge in after-work drinks at Après; party your Thursday nights away with Minted at Mechu; tantalise your taste buds with an award-winning cask ale at The Shakespeare or treat your loved one to fine dining at Fleet Street Kitchen. On-street parking is available around Summer Row, with a multi-storey NCP just a few minutes walk away on Newhall Street. QUARTER LIFE ISSUE EIGHT 5

6 NEWS WELCOME TO THE NEW JQ BUSINESSES 1000 Trades, Frederick Street Ana Rocha, Frederick Street Artisan Alchemy, Caroline Street Cyn - Tia s, Branston Street Downstairs, Water Street Frosty Browns, Caroline Street Fu s Natural Healing, Big Peg Golden Events, Vyse Street Guildsman Jewellery Gallery, Spencer Street House of Dolls, Augusta Street House of Solus, Warstone Lane Pure and Beautiful / Kamore Hair, Vyse Street Saint Paul s House, St Paul s Square JQ ON THE EDGE The World Festival of Theatre for Young Audiences On The Edge festival takes centre stage in Birmingham this summer and our very own Blue Orange Theatre has been taking part. The festival, aimed at children and young people, takes place in a different international city each year. In July, the second city welcomed young audiences from around the globe to 15 unique shows, including a performance at one of the Jewellery Quarter s independent theatres. Losha is the story of a magical creature that collects items that have been forgotten, uncovering memories through a series of discarded objects along the way. Directed by Kareen Pennefather, the show captured the heart and stirred the memory of audiences. Squibble Ltd, Frederick Street The Button Factory, Frederick Street The Floating Spa, Hall Street The Pig & Tail, Albion Street The Watch Service Centre, Spencer Street Upstairs Coffee House, Water Street UR Stay Serviced Apartments, Warstone Lane Vape Quarter, Tenby Street Your Boutique Training, Northwood Street To find out more about these businesses and the many more which call the Quarter home, visit 6 QUARTER LIFE ISSUE EIGHT

7 Caption Name? Job Title? THE JEWELLERY QUARTER HAS A LOT TO BE PROUD OF BUT DID YOU KNOW IT HARBOURS POTENTIAL OLYMPIC TALENT IN THE FORM OF SPORTS AND SCIENCE TEACHER KIM SHANNON? WE JUMPED INTO THE RING AND CAUGHT UP WITH KIM TO FIND OUT WHAT SHE S BEEN UP TO AND HER PLANS FOR THE FUTURE. Teacher Kim Shannon leads a double life; by day she s head of sports and science at independent school Values Academy but by night she dons a pair of boxing gloves for two hours of intense training in preparation for the Commonwealth Games 2018 and Tokyo Olympics in Kim s passion for boxing began just over four years ago when she came across a city centre gym offering training. Certainly no stranger to a challenge, she took to the sport like a fish to water. With a phenomenal amount of dedication and determination, Kim has competed in competition after competition, which led to her being noticed by Team GB. She has just one final assessment to go now before being officially inducted into Team GB and is being hailed as the next Nicola Adams by many. Boxing isn t a full time career for Kim, though, she s also an integral part of Values Academy in Hockley, a specialist school that provides education to children at risk of social exclusion. The school has just over 30 pupils, many of whom have been removed from mainstream education due to behavioural issues. When you walk around the school with Kim though it s clear to see that the students look up to her, many even see her as a role model. Whilst boxing and teaching may appear to be very separate career paths, Kim often draws upon her ringside passion in the classroom, emphasising to students that if they want something badly enough they should work hard and follow their dreams. Kim is a testament to her beliefs, and her experiences have helped shape the minds of hundreds of young people. This spring Kim represented the UK twice, once in Norway and the other in Germany in the Queen s Cup. But what s next for the Olympic hopeful? With the boxing season now on a break until September she is focusing on developing Values Academy s sports programme and building partnerships with other schools, and of course, continuing to train for her final Team GB assessment later this year. Kim is a true inspiration and we ll be supporting her all the way on her Olympic journey. QUARTER LIFE ISSUE EIGHT 7

8 CHANGING SPACES Over the last 18 months, Caroline Street, one of the key routes into the Jewellery Quarter, has undergone a considerable amount of regeneration work. In this edition of Changing Spaces, we take a look inside Artisan Alchemy, a stunning new gallery and workshop that has opened in the street. 8 QUARTER LIFE ISSUE EIGHT

9 Before it was bought by developers, 85 Caroline Street had lain empty for more than 20 years. Whilst no official records have been found about the building, it is thought to date back to the late 19th century and is believed to have been used as a factory at some point. When Michele White, artist and owner of Artisan Alchemy, inspected the building for the first time, it was an empty shell that needed considerable work. Inside, it was derelict, with missing floors, holes in the wall and plenty of pigeons taking refuge. Despite this, Michele immediately saw potential in the space. She had a vision for a new gallery that would sell bespoke pieces of jewellery and furniture that you wouldn t find on the Quarter s high street. In 2012, Michele bought the ground floor and basement of the building and planned to transform the ground floor into a gallery, and to create a series of workshop spaces for small businesses and a large meeting room in the basement. The pieces I create are bespoke and don t fit into high street stores. I wanted to create a gallery where I could sell my own work and also the work of other designers who have the same problem. Whilst all of the pieces in the gallery can be purchased, they also create an exhibition which visitors can peruse and admire. Through a secure door at the back of the gallery, you are led down a a corridor with six workshop spaces. Each space is between sq ft and comes fully fitted with heating and electrics perfect for any creative looking to move out of their spare bedroom. The businesses using the space include a sports therapist and a caterer who makes unique cakes. There is also a series of workbenches, which jewellery makers can rent. Artisan Alchemy is open Tuesday-Saturday, 10am-4pm. For more information about the gallery or to enquire about workshop space, visit or telephone QUARTER LIFE ISSUE EIGHT 9

10 Following the success of last year, the JQ Festival is bringing back its popular Open Studios Trail this summer. Across the weekend of July 22-24, many of the Jewellery Quarter s museums, workshops, galleries and studios will open their doors to the public, so you can have a good look at what goes on behind the scenes of some of Birmingham s most iconic spaces! More than 40 venues opened their doors last year, and this year s trail promises to be even bigger and bolder. From jewellery making to print making, tattoo studios to theatres, delve into the heart of Birmingham s historic Jewellery Quarter with JQ Festival s Open Studios. 10 QUARTER LIFE ISSUE EIGHT

11 CHOCOLATE QUARTER Birmingham s newest chocolate shop opened in the Quarter earlier this year and will be offering visitors the chance to sample delights made from the highest quality Belgian chocolate. Try your hand at being a chocolatier by making your very own chocolate to take away and eat, and watch the experts as they make mouth-watering concoctions right before your eyes. CITIZEN HOME Citizen Home has been hard at work with youth groups in the Quarter to create a herb and flower garden in its courtyard, with the grand unveiling taking place as part of the Open Studios weekend. There ll be plenty to do in the garden, including painting, chocolate tasting, bath bomb and candle making and upcycling demonstrations! BPN ARCHITECTS After the success of last year s crazy golf, BPN Architects invites visitors to Knock Down Brum with a series of games that are each themed to a beloved Brum building. The architects will create miniature versions of buildings that have been demolished in Birmingham it s your job to knock them down and build them back up again! There will also be live music, refreshments and a chance to meet the BPN team. EL DORADO El Dorado will host Painting Hours over the weekend, giving visitors the opportunity to see how the furniture in its vintage furniture shop is repainted, repurposed and resold. This is a great opportunity for budding upcyclers and vintage collectors to ask the experts and watch first hand how to do-it-yourself! 1000 TRADES 16 Frederick Street CITIZEN HOME 82 Vyse Street JORDAN HERRY Unit 3, 85 Spencer Street ROXANNA MOZNABI Unit 3, 85 Spencer Street THE EMMA PRESS TBC ADP ARCHITECHTURE 33a Vittoria Street COLLETTE WAUDBY 72 Vyse Street JULIA DAVENPORT Unit 6, 94 Spencer Street SCHOOL OF JEWELLERY Vittoria Street THE PEN MUSEUM 60 Frederick Street ANDUPHOLSTER 42 Vyse Street ARTFULL EXPRESSION 23 Warstone Lane ARTISAN ALCHEMY 85 Caroline Street B18 LEATHER 13c Pitsford Street BECCA WILLIAMS Unit 31, 31 Hylton Street BEO LONDON 3 Warstone Lane BPN ARCHITECTS 3 Mary Street BUG JEWELLERY 59 Caroline Street CENTREPIECE 13c Pitsford Street EL DORADO VINTAGE 22a Augusta Street FELLOWS AUCTION HOUSE 19 Augusta Street FRILLY INDUSTRIES 89 Spencer Street GOSIA WEBER 53a Frederick Street GUILDSMAN GALLERY 86 Spencer Street HASRET BROWN 22 Regent Place HUB 35 Tenby Street JAMES NEWMAN 49 Vyse Street JULIET LOW Unit 3, 85 Spencer Street KARLUS G, TAILOR 17f Vyse Street MUSEUM OF THE JEWELLERY QUARTER Vyse Street QUARTER WORKSHOP 15 Fleet Street (Coffin works) RBSA 4 Brook Street RHIANNON LEWIS Unit 6, 94 Spencer Street ROCK N ROLL BREWHOUSE Unit 2, 60 Regent Place SEQUIN SHOW STOPPERS 88 Vyse Street ST PAULS GALLERY 94 Northwood Street SUMMER AND SILVER 88 Vyse Street THE BLUE ORANGE THEATRE 118 Great Hampton Street THE CHOCOLATE QUARTER 1a Spencer Street THE COFFIN WORKS Fleet Street THE DUAL WORKS 23a Kenyon Street TINA FRANCIS 15 Fleet Street (Coffin Works) TIP TOP PHOTOGRAPHY 199 Warstone Lane VISUALE 53 Regent Place WARSTONE TATTOO 123 Warstone Lane WONDERFUL WORLD OF TRAINS AND PLANES 3 Mary Ann Street WYRDWOOD STUDIO 17e Vyse Street QUARTER LIFE ISSUE EIGHT 11

12 The JQ s annual celebration of heritage and creativity will once again return this July, as the JQBID invites festival-goers to explore every corner of the Quarter and what it has to offer. Starting Friday July 22 at 4pm with an afterwork party, the three-day Jewellery Quarter Festival celebrates the unique blend of heritage and thriving creative innovation in this quirky corner of Birmingham. The weekend will see a host of activities, music, live acts and performances hosted on the Quarter s newest public space, the Golden Square. This year, the festival also extends to St Paul s Square, the last Georgian square in Birmingham. Why not finish work with that Friday feeling and join friends and family for a drink on the Golden Square, or bring the kids on Saturday for familyfriendly activities, circus acts and unlimited free rides on the old-time helter skelter? If you d rather kick back with a picnic and soak up the summer sun, then head down to St Paul s Square. Voted one of the top urban picnic areas in the UK, the square will be kitted out with a bandstand and live music from Birmingham s International Jazz & Blues Festival. If jazz is your jam, pick up a JQ Jazz Legends programme and catch a top-notch performance in one of many exciting venues across the Quarter. The festival will offer a tantalising selection of food and drink from local bars and restaurants to tease your tastebuds. With more than 60 quirky bars, independent cafes and restaurants open all over the weekend and brimming with tasty offerings, there s no excuse not to treat yourself. Take a break from the festival fun to explore the Jewellery Quarter s heritage and cultural scene. Join in one of our free heritage tours or visit one of our attractions; from museums to art galleries, theatres, or even Scalextric and flight simulators at Wonderful World of Trains and Planes. With even more yet to be announced, this year s festival is bursting at the seams with things to do, see, eat and drink. Keep checking the Jewellery Quarter website for more announcements 12 QUARTER LIFE ISSUE EIGHT

13 Meet the businesses shaping minds in the Quarter EDUCATION IN THE JQ

14 Isabella and Magnus Stokoe There is no shortage of wedding rings in the Jewellery Quarter, but for the die-hard romantics, there s somewhere you can go to make your own. Magnus and Bella, run by husband and wife Magnus and Isabella Stokoe, first began making bespoke jewellery in 2009, operating from a market stall across the Birmingham craft circuit before eventually opening a workshop on Vyse Street in Tradition is at the heart of the business, which is why Magnus and Bella only teach jewellery making by hand. Magnus still has his wheelwright grandfather s hammer once used to build cart wheels proudly hanging on the workshop wall, which he now uses to shape bespoke jewellery pieces. Magnus and Bella offer experience days not just for couples who want to make their own wedding rings, but also pairs or small groups, and you can rest assured that creativity isn t a prerequisite for jewellery-making! Silver is included in the booking prices, but if you d like to use more expensive metal, Magnus and Bella can provide these for you at an extra cost. With most pieces only taking a day to complete, you ll be able to take your finished piece of jewellery home with you on the day. Courses start at 175 for individual day sessions, with discounts for group bookings. A one-day course in wedding ring making is 250 per couple and includes a home-cooked lunch and bottle of Prosecco the perfect end to a day s graft and craft! To enquire about jewellery-making courses with Magnus and Bella, please call Magnus and Bella are currently designing a collection of wedding rings for the International Jewellery London show at Olympia London on September 4-6. EDUCATION JQ QUARTER LIFE

15 Adrienne Frances and Kirsty Hillyer We Are Frilly We Are Frilly CIC is a company with so many strings to its bow you wonder how big the bow actually is. Established by Adrienne Frances and Kirsty Hillyer, who between them have worked in the creative industries for more than 20 years, the pair work from a studio on Spencer Street filled with materials, designs and their most prized possession, Bertha, the laser cutter. The organisation has two arms: the first looks at the creative evaluation of cultural projects which can be anything from how audiences have engaged with projects right through to the process of how it all came together. The second is all about community arts and follows the ethos that everybody is creative, no matter what their age. The duo are constantly challenging themselves. Their work explores issues that affect communities and the outcomes are often very unexpected, but always worthwhile. Over the years, their work has led them to create transformative learning environments in schools featuring spaceships and jungles, self-portraits depicted solely on glass, puppets and even collaged community zines. They work across the country, earning them national recognition for what they create. wearefrilly.com EDUCATION JQ QUARTER LIFE

16 Garry Foxon-Hale andupholster I f you re into upcycling but haven t yet cottoned on to this crafty little workshop, you re in for a treat. In just 12 months, Andupholster has become a staple part of the Jewellery Quarter s creative learning scene, offering its students the chance to breathe new life into old furniture. Garry Foxon-Hale, an upholsterer by trade for the past 40 years, restored his first piece of furniture when he was 12 years old. Coming from a family of craftsmen and artisans, Garry has worked with some of Europe s most prized upholstery and frame-making companies and is qualified to issue certification for his courses something he says in the West Midlands is in short supply. The workshop, located just off Vyse Street, is spread across two floors and packed to the rafters with antique gems, all ready to have their stories unwoven. The courses, which begin at 45, attract a diverse fan club from twentysomethings looking to restore historic family heirlooms, to ex-londoners looking to meet new people and discover a rewarding hobby. With so many of us now thinking twice before we throw anything away, upcycling is becoming increasingly popular. Andupholster gives its students the chance to put their own personal stamp in their home, and learn a new skill that could eventually save them a few bob! To find out more about Andupholster, visit EDUCATION JQ QUARTER LIFE

17 Gary Walmsley and Steve Smith PROGRESS MUSIC ACADEMY Have you ever dreamt of becoming a rock star? The answer may well be right here in the Jewellery Quarter. Tucked away on a quiet street, Progress Academy first opened its doors in 2009 when industry heavyweights Gary Walmsley and Steve Smith spotted a gap in the market for a new style of music tuition. It is now the only Trinity College London Rock and Pop examination centre in the West Midlands and is supported by the worldrenowned amplification giant Marshall. Teaching an array of disciplines to a variety of people, Progress Academy offers half-hour to one-hour one-toone lessons in guitar, drums, bass guitar, piano and vocals across its 10 fully kitted studios. Gary and Steve are no strangers to the rock n roll lifestyle. Growing up, the pair played in a band together and believe that there s no better way to learn to play music than to play in a group. That s why they offer a wide range of flexible learning opportunities and practice space for students who wish to play together. By night, the duo work closely with some of the biggest musicians in the world, providing equipment demonstrations and support at events for drum makers Natal and parent company Marshall. Lessons at Progress Academy start at 16 for half an hour. Get 40% off your first session when quoting QUARTER LIFE. EDUCATION JQ QUARTER LIFE

18 Julia Higginbottom E ducation comes in many guises. There are some skills that a textbook and exam just can t teach, which is why creative film agency Rebel Uncut has launched a new programme for those looking to expand their understanding of all things digital through peer-to-peer knowledge sharing. Rebel Makers is changing the way people gain and develop skills, both personally and professionally. Whether you re 7 or 70, everybody has something to offer and something to gain, a mantra that the founders instil in the minds of those who attend its monthly meet-ups. Raspberry Pis, circuit boards, computers and board games fill Rebel Makers HQ on Ludgate Hill as they enable a more hands-on approach to learning. Each month, people of all ages meet to solve problems and learn; from Minecraft to building apps, digital plays a big role in the sessions. Coding isn t the only thing the group is mentored in though it s a place where personal skills such as confidence are developed, something Generation Z is often said to lack following the rise of social media. Traditional education establishments can often force students down a path, which means people often don t fit in. Rebel Makers aims to make something more tailored to individual needs, allowing those who attend the workshops to learn the skills that they want to. It has only been running for a year yet those attending have felt encouraged, enabled and part of something bigger. With plans to launch additional centres and meet-ups across the country, Rebel Makers is disrupting education for the better. EDUCATION JQ QUARTER LIFE

19 EDUCATION LISTINGS Abbey College St Paul s Square Academic Solutions Vyse Street And Upholster Vyse Street Andreea Design Warstone Lane Bellis Training Cente Frederick Street Black Country Atelier Mary Ann Street Change Birmingham Brief Therapy Vyse Street College of Food Summer Row Creative Support Water Street Free2Flow Coaching Vittoria Street Guitar Lessons Birmingham Caroline Street Highfield College Legge Lane In Bloom Vyse Street Jewellery & Silversmithing Classes Hylton Street Kinder Day Nursery Livery Street MacIntyre House UCB Holland Street Magnus & Bella Vyse Street Maharaja Jassa Singh Ramgherhia Education Centre Graham Street Museum of the Jewellery Quarter Vyse Street Papyrus Vyse Street Perry Beeches II Newhall Street Perry Beeches IV Albion Street Prymus Education Frederick Street Remploy Newhall Street Sans Day Nursery Hall Street School of Jewellery Vittoria Street Succeed Ltd Frederick Street Talis Frederick Street The Beauty Academy Lionel Street The Bespoke Jewellery Training Company The Blue Orange Theatre Great Hampton Street The Challenge Charlotte Street The Coffin Works Fleet Street The Education and Careers Corporation Northampton Street The Little Beauty School Hall Street The Old Fire Station Nursery Albion Street The Pen Museum (Calligraphy Classes) Frederick Street The Quarterworkshop Fleet Street The Skin Practice Northampton Street The Quarterworkshop Fleet Street University Of Law Great Hampton Street Values Academy Key Hill We are Frilly C.I.C. Spencer Street Your Beautique Training Northwood Street Zest Education Vyse Street EDUCATION JQ QUARTER LIFE

20 TENBY ST FREDERICK S ENGAGEMENT RING SPECIALISTS OVER 800 DESIGNS IN STOCK DIAMOND RINGS IN GOLD AND PLATINUM EXCLUSIVE ETERNITY RINGS WEDDING RINGS AT COMPETITIVE PRICES HIGH QUALITY DIAMOND JEWELLERY Diamond Heaven 115 Vyse Street Jewellery Quarter Birmingham B18 6LP Tel: sales@diamond-heaven.co.uk PITSFORD STREET JEWELLERY QUARTER HOCKLEY ST SPENCER ST NORTHAMPTON STREET A4540 P VYSE STREET P PEMBERTON ST /diamondheavenbirmingham Diamond Heaven WARSTONE LANE THE CLOCK WARSTONE /dhpinit

21 A THE REST One of Jewellery Quarter s barbershops has proven it really is a cut above the rest as it takes home a top industry award. Barberology, on Caroline Street, has been awarded the title of Barbershop of the Year at the UK s Premiere Annual Barber Awards. The awards were held as part of Barber Connect, the biggest barbering convention in the UK. Being named Barbershop of the Year is a major accolade for Barberology which opened in July Described as a modernised classic barber by owner Adam Gore, the shop offers a wealth of services from haircuts and shaves to moustache trims and beard tidies. For the more discerning metrosexual, the team even offers brow tidies and nostril, ear and body waxing. All Barberology staff are trained to a very high standard and handpicked for their expertise. The brand specialises in Italian-style techniques with a Barberology twist. It s the attention to detail and small touches that make Barberology one of the top places for male maintenance in the Quarter. For more information and to book an appointment why not pop-in or visit QUARTER LIFE ISSUE EIGHT 13

22 If you ve walked through the streets of the Jewellery Quarter recently you ll have noticed that they are looking particularly colourful, which can mean only one thing JQ In Bloom is back and this year it s bigger and better than ever. Fifteen of the Quarter s streets are being lined with vibrant flower baskets and planters, bringing an extra touch of colour to the area for the summer months courtesy of the JQBID. Old favourite the Wicker Angel will be making a welcome return to St Paul s Square, alongside a brand new display for 2016 on Hockley Street roundabout. For the first time, the blue bridge which connects the JQBID and Colmore BID will also be adorned with flower baskets, welcoming visitors to the area marks 10 years of the JQ participating in the flowery initiative, and this year it covers the widest area to date. The plants will be maintained throughout the summer months until September, so you have plenty of time to admire them. If you re out and about, take a picture and upload it to Twitter using the hashtag #JQInBloom 14 QUARTER LIFE ISSUE EIGHT

23 Starting a new job can often mean relocating, and what better place to move to than the Jewellery Quarter? We caught up with Fiona Allan, the new chief executive of one of the country s top theatres, Birmingham Hippodrome, about her recent move to the JQ and why she loves it so much. HOW LONG HAVE YOU LIVED IN THE JEWELLERY QUARTER? I moved to Birmingham late last September, during the amazing weekend of Grand Central opening, Rugby World Cup and Birmingham Weekender - what a fantastic start to my new life here. Having asked a lot of friends and colleagues where was best to live, I d narrowed my search down to either Moseley or the Jewellery Quarter. On being shown around an apartment in New Hampton Lofts, with terrific city skyline views, I fell in love and filled out the lease forms on the spot. Now I can t imagine living anywhere else. WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT THE JEWELLERY QUARTER? I love the Quarter s blend of style and grittiness. It s still such a mixed ecology and I find that fascinating. All the start-up indie businesses are terrific it feels like more and more are opening every day- and I try to spend my money locally where I can. I m a member at Fighting Fit City Gym and they are about to move into bespoke premises in Henrietta Street it s a very ambitious plan and for me sums up the energy and entrepreneurialism of many JQ businesses. IF SOMEBODY WAS VISITING FOR THE FIRST TIME, WHERE WOULD YOU SUGGEST THEY VISIT? My parents are coming to visit soon, so I ve been putting some thought into what to do with them. Being from Sydney they are complete coffee snobs, so they ll be sent around the numerous and very good independent cafes. The Jewellery Quarter Museum, and the jewellery shops, will definitely appeal to my mother. They will both enjoy St Paul s Square, the cemeteries, and just walking about taking in the neighbourhood architecture, a fabulous mix of centuries and styles. I m also going to recommend they take the tram into New Street, that s such a convenient new development and I ve caught it home from work often now. WHERE ARE YOUR FAVOURITE PLACES TO EAT/DRINK? I live almost across the road from The Church, and hanker after its soul food menu, my favourite is the blackened fish. The Eight Foot Grocer (I love the guys who run it) and Urban Coffee Company for a strong flat white and weekend brunch. The bar at Saint Pauls House is perfect for a quick post-work drink. There s still plenty I ve yet to visit; I m waiting for a special occasion to try Two Cats Kitchen, which sounds terrific. QUARTER LIFE ISSUE EIGHT 15

24 Entrepreneurs shine at retail network event In May, fashion and jewellery entrepreneurs got together at Birmingham City University School of Jewellery to learn from the success stories of industry professionals, including representatives from Selfridges, Net A Porter, Topshop, Deakin & Francis and John Lewis. Guests had the opportunity to network with successful brands and buyers, and to enjoy talks on everything from pleasing your customers to raising funds and setting up pop-up shops within Topshop. 16 QUARTER LIFE ISSUE EIGHT

25 Music in the Square Friday June 10 marked the first of a series of live music events presented by JQBID. Music in the Square is a new lunchtime event taking place on selected Fridays throughout the summer until September from noon-2pm in the Golden Square, Warstone Lane. If you missed this one, you can plan your next lunchtime at WhatsOn. QUARTER LIFE ISSUE EIGHT 17

26 Volunteering IN THE JQ In the UK it s estimated that over 21 million people volunteer their spare time at least once a year. Volunteering isn t just a great way to meet old friends, make new ones and pick up a few new skills, though many organisations rely on volunteers to survive. Following the return of the inspirational Volunteers Week in June, we take a look at a handful of the many opportunities which are available in the Jewellery Quarter all year round. PEN MUSEUM PAPYRUS With a collection of more than 5,000 objects relating to Birmingham s steel pen trade and the history of writing, The Pen Museum offers a unique window into the second city s role in the information revolution. The museum is looking for visitor engagement and marketing volunteers to help engage with visitors and spread the word of the attraction. Visit for more information. Papyrus is a national charity for the prevention of young suicide. It relies on the support of those who share the organisation s passion for a world in which young people can talk openly about difficult thoughts and feelings. With suicide being the biggest killer of young people under 35 in the UK, volunteers are vital to raising funds and awareness to banish the stigma surrounding young suicide. To find out about volunteering opportunities and fundraising visit 18 QUARTER LIFE ISSUE EIGHT

27 YOUR JQ KEEP IT CLEAN This summer the JQBID is reaching out to local residents, businesses and members of the community to participate in an area wide clean-up project. The BID will be hitting the streets later this year with brooms, litter pickers and more as part of a mass clean-up. Volunteers are being invited to pick up a pair of marigolds and join in the campaign to show the rest of Birmingham how proud we all are of the JQ. Cleaning supplies will be provided by the BID. For more information visit COFFIN WORKS Volunteering at Newman Brothers offers a unique and rewarding experience of working in one of Birmingham s newest visitor attractions. If you re friendly and outgoing, enjoy talking to people and sharing your passion for Birmingham s social and industrial history, this could be for you. There are two main ways to get involved: a front of house volunteer or a tour guide. Visit to find out more about these opportunities. WONDERFUL WORLD OF TRAINS AND PLANES Calling all transport fans The Wonderful World of Trains and Planes needs you! If you ve got a passion for model building, aviation or locomotives, you could be the perfect person for the job. The model attraction is looking for everything from volunteer builders to help create new attractions, to test pilots for its very own flight simulator. To find our more call or hello@wwtrainsplanes.co.uk MIND Birmingham Mind is a mental health charity that was established in 1962 providing services in, and beyond, the boundaries of the city of Birmingham. It has a number of volunteer activities ranging from befriending people, administrative and reception duties to research and group support. Mind is always looking at new ways of involving volunteers, both individual and corporate, and welcomes enquiries. For more information contact the volunteer coordinator, Andrew Nicholls, on , info@birminghammind.org or visit QUARTER LIFE ISSUE EIGHT 19

28 LEARN IN THE JQ IT S ALL IN THE NAME COURSES AVAILABLE BEGINNERS Silver Jewellery for beginners Introduction to Silversmithing INTERMEDIATE Dating back more than 250 years, the Jewellery Quarter is still home to over 500 jewellery businesses, ranging from luxurious retailers to award-winning designer-makers. But where do you go to learn about the craft? Birmingham City University s School of Jewellery has a number of exciting opportunities lined up this summer, giving future designers a taste of the historic industry. Located on Vittoria Street, the School of Jewellery is the largest of its kind in Europe. The grand institution has received numerous visits over the years from members of the Royal Family who have marvelled at the creations of its award-winning students. If you ve ever wanted to dip your toe in the historic industry, whether it s to start your own business or you just have an interest, there s never been a better time. This summer, the School of Jewellery is running a range of short courses aimed at beginners, intermediates and the more seasoned professionals who just want to brush up their skills. From learning the basics of silver jewellery, to the finer techniques of crafting, there s plenty for everyone to get stuck into. Full details on all of the courses on offer can be found at Keum Boo: embellish silver with gold Casting for successful production Matrix skills Making mounts for asymmetrical stones or found subjects ADVANCED MASTERCLASSES Fine techniques Argentium silver Catches, clasps and hinges 20 QUARTER LIFE ISSUE EIGHT

29 LEARN IN THE JQ MAKE YOUR MARK BIRMINGHAM WITH HOLTS ACADEMY & ASSAY OFFICE There are plenty of pathways into the jewellery industry here in the Quarter, even if university isn t for you. We take a look at one golden opportunity that s open to everyone. Holts Academy, the leading training and education provider to the UK jewellery industry, has launched a new apprenticeship training scheme in partnership with Assay Office Birmingham. Holts Academy is unique among training providers. Set up in 1999 by Holts Lapidary, the renowned gemstone and fine jewellery specialists in Hatton Garden, London, the notfor-profit social enterprise has grown to become recognised as a major training provider, delivering accredited qualifications at all levels as well as apprenticeships. The Academy Team is dedicated to creating the next generation of jewellers, designers and artisans. Assay Office Birmingham has put the final touches to its tailor-made classrooms and workspaces with Holts Academy at its new office on Moreton Street, providing learning resources for students, those seeking further personal development and young people wanting a creative career. There are a variety of courses on offer, including jewellery manufacturing and CAD design, silversmithing, enamelling, hand engraving, business administration and retail jewellery. Jewellery manufacturing students spend one day a week at the new purpose-built education facility, and four days within a local business. Most courses begin in September or January, and last between 12 and 18 months. Anyone over the age of 16 can apply, and on successful completion of the course, students will receive a nationally recognised qualification and an invitation to attend a graduation ceremony. QUARTER LIFE ISSUE EIGHT 21

30 RBSA MAKING AN IMPRESSION A brand new arts festival, presented by the Royal Birmingham Society of Artists, is coming to the Jewellery Quarter. The RBSA Printmaking Festival, supported using public funding by the National Lottery through Arts Council England, is showcasing the works of Birmingham artists until November. People of every age are invited to have a go at the diverse art form and participants can try everything from etching, engraving and silk-screen printing, to making a tote bag or printing on pizza! Art enthusiasts can attend a Mezzotint Engraving workshop, and learn to monotype on Tuesday August 16. On August 17, artist and printmaker Colin Yates will host The Painterly Print workshop, which will enable participants to work with mixed media such as chinecollé, monoprinting and silk-screen printing. A two-day wood engraving course takes place on August 18-19, while a silk-screen printing workshop with Karoline Rerrie takes place on Saturday August 20. RBSA is also hosting a range of demonstrations from October 22 November 12, including etching with Leicester Print Workshop, collagraph printing with Celia Nancarrow from RBSA, and a hands-on print demonstration and discussion of the books and printed ephemera produced from the 16th century to today. 22 QUARTER LIFE ISSUE EIGHT

31 what s on For all the details on what s on locally visit jewelleryquarter.net/whatson MUSIC IN THE SQUARE Every fortnight from August 5 to September 16 Noon 2.00pm Golden Square JQ FESTIVAL 2016 July OPEN STUDIOS TRAIL July OLYMPICS MIDNIGHT PICNIC August 5 Golden Square Families can introduce their little ones to the world of print when two family-friendly workshops take place on Sunday October 23. Why not make tote bags that are perfect for trick-or-treating, or learn how to transform a humble pizza base into another world through printmaking? One of the main highlights of the festival will be the Printmaking Symposium on Sunday, October 30, when ticket holders can explore contemporary and historic printmaking. At the end of the festival, printmakers can enter the Print Prize Exhibition for the chance to win up to 1,000, courtesy of the GMC Trust. JEWELLERY QUARTER INFUSIONS Jewellery Quarter Fusions is your opportunity to experience the quality, expertise and unique products and services throughout the Jewellery Quarter. For one time only, two businesses will come together to provide a unique experience that you can take away. Speak to staff one on one, try samples, enjoy a night with friends and meet new people. TO FIND OUT HOW TO ENTER THE PRINT PRIZE EXHIBITION, GO TO AND DOWNLOAD AN APPLICATION PACK. Workshop prices range from and can also be booked via the website. AUGUST pm 8.00pm In Bloom + Dale Hairdressing SEPTEMBER pm 8.00pm Two Towers Brewery + Artfull Expressions To tell us about an event mat.lovell@jqdt.org QUARTER LIFE ISSUE EIGHT 23

32