Artworks by Francis Xavier as part of the Walsall Makes strand
Over the last year thousands of Walsall residents have been inspired and engaged through a dynamic cultural programme delivered as part of the Commonwealth Games Legacy Enhancement Fund (CWGLEF), celebrating creativity, community and local heritage.
Funded by the CWGLEF’s Cultural Pillar and delivered by Walsall Council in partnership with Creative Black Country, the Creative Commissioning strand of the programme has brought art into public spaces, empowered local makers, inspired the future of making in Walsall, and supported vibrant cultural activity throughout the borough.
With more than 21,500 attendees and over 50 volunteers engaged, the programme has made strides in making arts and culture more accessible to residents. The programme also gave employment and development opportunities to 13 artists and freelancers. From large-scale public art commissions in the town centre to community events and workshops, the initiative reflects Walsall ambition to create thriving, creative places to live, work and play.
Highlights included
Walsall Makes: Temporary Public Art Commissions
Local artists Daya Bhatti, Francis Xavier and Queenie Garland were commissioned to create new public artworks inspired by Walsall’s heritage, culture and identity. The three artists animated empty units in the Saddlers Centre, inviting residents to observe and engage with their creative processes. These commissions attracted over 16,700 visitors and engaged 38 volunteers including 35 local students.
Earthbound installation at The New Art Gallery Walsall
Last autumn, Birmingham-based collective General Public held a series of hands-on workshops at The New Art Gallery Walsall with Caldmore Community Garden’s Women’s Group. Collaborating under the name ‘Mud Club’, they used mud, clay, cob and other natural materials to co-produce a series of animal sculptures. This collaborative artwork, The Sanctum of the One-Eyed Toad (& other Spirit Animals of Walsall), 2024, can be seen on the Gallery’s third floor as part of their Earthbound exhibition until 8 June 2025. The exhibition has had an estimated 40,000 visitors to date.
Workshops at The New Art Gallery Walsall with members of Caldmore Community Garden’s Women’s Group. Photo: Emotive Eye (Current slide)
Workshops at The New Art Gallery Walsall with members of Caldmore Community Garden’s Women’s Group. Photo: Emotive Eye
Workshops at The New Art Gallery Walsall with members of Caldmore Community Garden’s Women’s Group. Photo: Emotive Eye
Walsall MakerFest events
A series of digital film production, storytelling, and poetry workshops as part of the inaugural Walsall MakerFest, hosted in partnership with Creative Black Country and local CIC Urban Hax, showcased local talent. With 65 attendees, these events played a valuable role in supporting emerging artists and encouraging cultural participation. The second Walsall MakerFest returns to the town centre on 13 September 2025.
Community-Led Cultural Celebrations
Eleven community centres hosted inclusive events aimed at celebrating Walsall’s cultural diversity, reducing isolation, and encouraging cohesion. These events reached 1,457 attendees. An additional 6 cultural micro-grants supported 38 local activities and events across the borough, drawing in hundreds more residents. Additionally, six small cultural community grants were awarded to small community organisations to deliver events/activities/festivals promoting culture, creativity and heritage. 38 activities/events were delivered in total attracting 540 attendees in total.
“ This programme has created real opportunities for residents to experience, participate in, and shape cultural life in their communities. It’s a fantastic example of how legacy funding can deliver real value on the ground – supporting local artists and makers, inspiring residents, and helping us build a more vibrant, connected borough. “
Councillor Gary Flint, Portfolio Holder for Health and Wellbeing at Walsall Council