OPINION | Birmingham street art with a human message

Robin Fidoe, an inspirational art teacher at Rockwood Academy (formerly Park View School) in Alum Rock, recently lost his battle with cancer and passed away.

Mr Fidoe was a hardworking member of staff and he went through the whole Trojan Horse controversy that engulfed the school. His vision to unite the pupils and inspire the community through art was a part of his ethos over the years. His positivity was his legacy and today there is a celebration of this remarkable teacher.

Birmingham based artist Mohammed Ali has paid tribute to Robin Fidoe by painting a wall outside the school in memory of the teacher, which also includes a slogan that was part of Mr Fidoe’s positive vision.

The local people, including parents, former pupils, and current students at Rockwood Academy, are all united in their praise of Mr Fidoe’s work at the school, and the art by Mohammed Ali has generated interest from the local people who are already stopping to admire the work, share memories, and express their gratitude to an inspirational teacher.

Street art is often criticised and labelled and usually misunderstood by the mainstream establishment. This new painting is an excellent example of art reaching out and connecting in a direct way with the community and getting people to talk and share their views and memories.

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