Robert Plant has partnered with photographer Tom Hicks to launch “Black Country Type II,” a 144-page book documenting the urban landscapes of the Black Country. Plant wrote the foreword for the collection, which is published by The Modernist, and is supporting a companion exhibition currently open at the Black Country Living Museum in Dudley.
Robert Plant supports Tom Hicks’ Black Country Type II
The new book, titled “Black Country Type II” as a reference to Led Zeppelin II, focuses on the contemporary visual culture of the region. Robert Plant described the work as “a startling study of our fractured, crazy place” in the book’s sales listing from The Modernist.
Plant’s involvement stems from a long-standing connection with Hicks. According to Hicks, the two first collaborated when Plant invited him to curate a photographic exhibition for a show in Wolverhampton. Hicks told LedZepNews that they share a mutual passion for the region and a common interest in Wolverhampton Wanderers.
Did you know? The title of the book, “Black Country Type II,” is a direct nod to the second studio album by Led Zeppelin.
Exhibition at Black Country Living Museum
A selection of twelve images from the project is currently on display in the visitor centre café at the Black Country Living Museum. The exhibition opened on August 12 and is expected to remain available for over a year.
The display contrasts the museum’s historical focus with modern urban vistas. According to the Black Country Living Museum (BCLM), the featured images include the brick façade of Wolverhampton train station and the colourful tiles of the Stourbridge Junction underpass. Three of the images specifically feature museum architecture, including the vintage fairground and a recreation of Langer’s Army & Navy Stores in Stourbridge.
Hannah Parsons, Head of Development and Communications at BCLM, stated that the display allows visitors to reflect on the contrast between the modern Black Country landscape and the historical views found elsewhere in the museum.
Capturing the Post-Industrial Landscape
Tom Hicks describes his process as taking photos during “freeform walks and cycle rides” through areas that remain relatively unknown to those outside the region, according to LedZepNews. He stated that his work focuses on the “colour, character and humour” of the area.
Plant praised this approach, noting that Hicks captures the “surreal madness and magnificence of our old mothership with a keen eye and quiet wit.”
Visitor Tip: Copies of “Black Country Type II” and individual prints of Hicks’ work are available for purchase directly from the Black Country Living Museum gift shop.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I see the Tom Hicks exhibition?
The exhibition is located in the café space within the visitor centre at the Black Country Living Museum in Dudley.
Who wrote the foreword for Black Country Type II?
The foreword was written by Robert Plant, the former lead singer of Led Zeppelin and a native of the region.
How long will the exhibition be open?
Having opened on August 12, the display is expected to be open for more than one year.
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