Birmingham, UK – Central BID is proud to announce two exhibitions set to open in Birmingham celebrating the solo achievements and global awards of rock icon Ozzy Osbourne and the album art of the original Black Sabbath line up– just in time for their historic homecoming concert at Villa Park.
The free-to-enter exhibition at Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery called ‘Working Class Hero’ will showcase Ozzy’s most prestigious international honours – including Grammy Awards, Rock and Roll Hall of Fame accolades, his platinum and gold discs, recognising the millions of record sales around the world, alongside rarely seen photography and video that charts his journey from “a working-class kid from Aston” to the world’s most recognisable global rock legend.
Fans can also enjoy a free outdoor photography exhibition in Victoria Square, showcasing archive images of all four founding members of Black Sabbath, alongside iconic album artwork and fascinating facts about the band’s Birmingham roots.
And on nearby Navigation Street, world-famous spray artist Mr Murals has created a stunning 40m street-long artwork in tribute to Black Sabbath featuring their iconic logo and lifelike portraits. The perfect spot for a Sabbath selfie this summer.
Together, these attractions form a landmark tribute to one of the most influential rock bands in history.
Sharon Osbourne said: “Ozzy is proof that no matter where you start in life, with passion, grit, and a little bit of madness, you can achieve the extraordinary. This exhibition is a thank you to the fans and the city of Birmingham – the place where it all began. We’re so proud to bring it home.”
Sam Watson, Chair of Central BID Birmingham, said: “Ozzy Osbourne and Black Sabbath helped shape modern music and put Birmingham on the global cultural map. These exhibitions are a celebration of our city’s creativity, heritage and influence – and a chance for fans to walk in the footsteps of legends.”
Sara Wajid and Zak Mensah, Co-CEOs of Birmingham Museums Trust, said: “We are incredibly proud to host this prestigious exhibition dedicated to Ozzy Osbourne – a true Brummie icon whose influence spans generations and continents. Celebrating the life and achievements of someone so deeply connected to the city aligns perfectly with our mission to reflect and share Birmingham’s rich and diverse cultural heritage. We can’t wait to welcome visitors from near and far.”
With free entry, a once-in-a-lifetime concert, a striking new portrait, and an open-air exhibition in the heart of the city, Birmingham is the global destination for Black Sabbath fans this summer.
Further details, including exhibition opening dates and times, will be shared soon via Central BID Birmingham and Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery.
For media enquiries, contact: Stacey Barnfield at [email protected]
About Central BID Birmingham
Central BID is the Business Improvement District (BID) for Birmingham city centre’s retail area and has been supporting its members since 2007, promoting, enhancing and developing the shopping and leisure experience in the city centre.
While the retail environment is forever changing with the challenge of shopping online, Central BID firmly believes in supporting the shopping experience delivered by retailers in the city centre, maintaining Birmingham’s position as the regional capital for shopping.
About Birmingham Museums Trust
Birmingham Museums Trust is an independent charitable trust (no 1147014) formed in 2012 to care for over one million objects and nine museums. We share the city’s diverse collections, stories and spaces with the people of Birmingham and beyond thanks to regular funding from Birmingham City Council and Arts Council England, as well as the kind support of many individuals, companies and charitable trusts.
More information on Birmingham Museums Trust can be found at https://www.birminghammuseums.org.uk/about