Colmore BID is shining a spotlight on one of its most overlooked innovators, unveiling a brand-new exhibition Birmingham’s Photographic Pioneer’ honouring George Shaw (1818-1904). Produced by artist Jo Gane and organised and funded by Colmore Business District (BID), the free, open to all exhibition explores Shaw’s pioneering contributions to photography, science and civic life, and aims to restore his rightful place among the city’s celebrated figures. The exhibition builds on initial work by Pete James.
While Birmingham proudly commemorates icons like Boulton and Watt, Benjamin Zephaniah, Ozzy Osbourne and even the fictional Tommy Shelby, George Shaw’s legacy has remained largely unrecognised – until now. Born in Dudley and the son of a glass maker, Shaw was a patent agent, chemist, artist and educator who made Birmingham’s first daguerreotype photograph in 1839. Shaw’s influence extended far beyond photography, lecturing widely on chemistry and scientific advancements. He played a key role in the city’s educational institutions, helping to establish Birmingham’s first free public library. His work caught the attention of scientist Michael Faraday, where Shaw collaborated with metallurgist John Percy on groundbreaking photographic experiments.
Designed and arranged by Birmingham designer Stacey Barnfield, the exhibition is located at the West Midlands Metro Town Hall stop, outside Queens College Chambers, a key building where Shaw lectured and undertook his practice. It will showcase reproductions of rare daguerreotypes uncovered by the late Pete James, former curator of photographs at Birmingham Central Library. These images, now the subject of a practice-based PhD study by artist Jo Gane, offer a unique glimpse into Shaw’s artistic and scientific legacy.
In partnership with the Colmore BID team, Gane has developed this exhibition to reconnect Birmingham with its innovative industrial and artistic past. She said: “It has been a privilege to research Shaw’s photographs and uncover the activities of his network in Birmingham that tells a fascinating story of art, science and industry.”
Exhibition highlights include reproductions of rare daguerreotypes and calotype photographs by George Shaw, archival materials and artworks from Shaw’s collaborations with John Percy and Frederick Henry Henshaw, insight into Shaw’s role in major exhibitions including the 1851 Great Exhibition and displays exploring early photographic processes and Birmingham’s role in their development.
Melanie Williams, Colmore BID Board Director and lead of Outstanding Places said: “George Shaws’ story is a powerful reminder of Birmingham’s legacy as a city of innovation and creativity. We’re proud to deliver this exhibition which not only celebrates a largely unrecognised pioneer, but also invites the city to better reflect and respect its rich industrial and artistic heritage.”
Birmingham’s Photographic Pioneer’ honouring George Shaw (1818-1904)
on view through November/December 2025
Outdoors, by West Midlands Metro Town Hall stop, outside Queens College Chambers, Birmingham
Produced by Jo Gane, with Birmingham BID
For more information, visit https://colmorebusinessdistrict.com/projects/george-shaw/.
Installation shots courtesy Jo Gane.
