How did we select Red Stack?
Red Stack went through a careful selection process which took over 18 months. This ensures that public art on campus reflects the University’s values, history, and creativity - shaped by and for the whole community.
Who did we ask?
In 2022, we asked students, staff, and visitors - online and in person - what they’d like to see in public art around campus. We got 724 responses, and here’s what they told us.
People said public sculptures should:
- Be easy for everyone to enjoy, no matter their background or abilities
- Feel welcoming and inclusive, showing the diversity of our campus
- Connect with lots of different people, not just a few
- Be fun and joyful, adding some brightness to everyday life
How did we select artists for consideration?
Following campus-wide consultation, our curatorial team - supported by academic advisors and the Public Art Advisory Board - developed a brief and compiled a longlist of potential artists. Each was contacted to confirm their interest and availability to take part in the project.
The Public Art Advisory Board carefully reviewed proposals and selected Red Stack by Shaikha Al Mazrou. The final decision was reviewed and approved by the 125th Anniversary Project Board, the University Executive Board and the Vice Chancellor.
About the Public Art Advisory Board
About the Public Art Advisory Board
This group includes academics, arts professionals, students, estates and campus planning experts. The board is led by the curatorial team at University Collections, who help guide the University’s public art programme.
The board members who selected Red Stack:
- Stephen Ashton – Senior Project Manager for Estates
- Simon Cane – Director of Public and Cultural Engagement (now retired)
- Jenny Lance – Curator of Art, University Collections
- Clare Mullett – Head of University Collections
- Professor Pat Noxolo – Professor in Human Geography Chair in Postcolonial Geographies
- Megan Piper – Founder and Director of The Line sculpture trail in London
- Natalie Rudd – Midlands4Cities PHD student, academic and professional expert in sculpture and contemporary art
- Syed Sadath – President of the Guild of Students (2024-25) representing the student voice
- Dr Camilla Smith – Associate Professor and Head of Department of Art History, Curating and Visual Studies