Ikon Punks And Chancers P+C's X BCT Libraries Screenprint

A P+C's x Black Country Type collaboration to protest against Birmingham City Councils proposed library cuts -  all profits to help save our libraries!  

Their artwork is inspired by BCT's photograph of an 80s sign from the front of Selly Oak Library, which Birmingham City Council closed in 2018. The tee was photographed in the ruins of the library. The slogan, "LIBRARIES GIVE US POWER," is adapted from the Manic Street Preachers song "A Design for Life."

Birmingham City Council is currently in the process of making significant cuts to the community library service. Under their proposals, only 10 of 35 community libraries will remain open full time, with the rest reduced to two days of operation, closed entirely, or handed over to unfunded volunteer groups. This means that many parts of the city, including areas facing high levels of deprivation, will be without a community library for the first time in 140 years. This is seen as a blueprint for social decline. They strongly oppose this plan, saying "WE SAY NO!"

During the Birmingham City Council consultation period, all profits from this project were donated to help cover the printing costs of Brum Library Zine, a remarkable volunteer-led protest publication available for free in all community libraries starting from 21st September. A total of £1215 was donated.

Hand pulled screen print on G F Smith Colorplan art paper. Size A3 (unframed). 

Meet the Maker: Punks and Chancers live and work by the following motto: Organic cotton, ethically traded, made in factories that don’t mess with the workers' rights. They're screen printed in Birmingham using water based vegan inks that don't mess with the environment.