Birmingham’s Forward Gallery has launched a partnership with luxury jewellery showroom Mappin & Webb to brighten up their showroom with world famous art.
Seven works from the art gallery’s extensive Master’s Collection are now on display, including signed editions by Andy Warhol, Damien Hirst and Tracey Emin. More distinctive art is set to follow, including by homegrown Birmingham talent.
Amid Birmingham city centre’s bustling shopping area, Forward Gallery in Cannon Street neighbours the Mappin & Webb showroom in nearby New Street at Burlington Arcade – and the two have found a natural connection that works as a special collaboration.
Tim Ison, Forward Gallery Director, said: “We’re delighted to see contemporary Masters presented alongside one of Britain’s most prestigious luxury names.
“It came about because Mappin and Webb decided that they wanted to add a few selected works to their newly refurbished New Street showroom.
“The area manager knew me and reached out to see if we would be interested, as he knew that we have a strong identity for dealing in blue chip art pieces, which would fit well with their brand.”
Mappin & Webb’s luxury showroom, formerly Watches of Switzerland, is a favourite with shoppers for jewellery and designer watches. Brands from Rolex to Tudor are on display amongst Forward Gallery’s stunning paintings, along with diamond engagement rings and collections by the best in the world, including La Maison Chopard.
Lloyd Morgan, Mappin & Webb Showroom Director in Birmingham, said: “As an organisation, we were looking at a collaborative partnership.
“I know Tim’s Forward Gallery has a strong connection to the city with a diversity of artists and homegrown talent that they work with. There’s a natural connection between us and Forward Gallery.
“We’re pleased with the first installment featuring Andy Warhol and Tracey Emin and they really do appeal to our client base.
“Now we are going to look at having work by local artists, so we can promote them here too. We’re really happy that we are able to promote Tim’s business with a nice collaboration like this.”
Art expert Tim Ison opened Forward Gallery in Cannon Street in June last year after relocating from Colmore Row. His collections showcase both globally recognised names and fresh regional talent and have featured David Hockney and Banksy alongside up-and-coming local artists.
That makes the gallery an irresistible stop-off for art lovers and those looking to buy new pieces.
Forward Gallery can be found at 5 Cannon Street. Mappin & Webb is at 124 New Street at the corner with Burlington Arcade in Birmingham city centre.