60ft Peaky Blinders mural unveiled in Digbeth ahead of new series launch

A Midlands artist has had his Peaky Blinders fan art turned into a 60ft mural on display in Digbeth in Birmingham.

Local lad James Mundy from Stoke-On-Trent submitted his portrait of the TV drama’s lead character Thomas Shelby – played by Cillian Murphy – to a BBC competition, but was shocked and thrilled when he discovered his creation had been selected.

James is one of 16 lucky designers to have his artwork chosen from over a thousand entries as part of a BBC campaign to launch the new series of the gripping period drama based in Birmingham.

James’ artwork is titled ‘The Man I Am’ and is now proudly on display at the Custard Factory in Birmingham.

Speaking about his design and its subject, Tommy Shelby, James said: “I created a painting that was a bit dark but at the same time shows his pride and his willingness to overcome his past and try to move on.

“I am absolutely amazed and honoured to have my artwork in the stunning city of Birmingham.

“It truly means a lot because it’s where the story originates from and it’s going to be seen worldwide.

“I wanted to show Thomas Shelby as a proud man. The razorblades dripping from him represents the past and how it hangs on, while his posture and expression shows his pride and determination.”

Several of the other designs to make the final BBC selection have also been used to promote the new series of the show, including appearing on billboards across the city.

WATCH: The 60ft Peaky Blinders mural taking shape in Birmingham

The new and fifth series of Peaky Blinders begins on Sunday 25th August 2019, at 9pm on BBC One.