Birmingham Community Photography: 118 Swimmers in Historic Baths 2026

Birmingham community photography reaches a powerful peak in Attilio Fiumarella's striking image of 118 swimmers in the historic Moseley Road Baths. This photograph, taken on 20 July 2014, was the culmination of a collaborative portrait project that celebrated the diverse community and the building's rich heritage. Fiumarella's work demonstrates how community photography can transform an empty architectural space into a living tableau of human connection.

The Story Behind the Iconic Birmingham Pool Photograph

Fiumarella moved to Birmingham in 2013 and was immediately drawn to the Moseley Road Baths, an Edwardian-era building with three distinct entrances—once for first class, second class, and women. The building's gala pool was already empty, and the council planned to shut it down due to lack of funding. A chance encounter with a local woman revealed the building's fascinating history: it served as a casualty station during World War II and later as a dance hall. This inspired Fiumarella to create a portrait project that would fill the majestic space with the community that had used it for generations.

How the Photograph Was Made: A Collaborative Effort

With a local community bursary from Some Cities, Fiumarella worked alongside the Friends of Moseley Road Baths to recruit swimmers. He distributed flyers in the neighborhood, inviting people of all ages and backgrounds to participate. The result was a diverse group of 118 Brummies, ranging from young children to seniors, all posing in their swimsuits. The image not only captures the physical space but also the social fabric of the community.

Technical Challenges and Triumphs

Fiumarella chose to use a large format camera for the first time on this project—a decision he admits was 'slightly crazy' but ultimately rewarding. The large format camera required precise setup and longer exposure times, adding to the intensity of the shoot. The final photograph is a testament to the power of patience and collaboration in documentary photography.

Why This Image Resonates: Community and Heritage

The photograph is more than just a group portrait; it's a statement about the importance of preserving community spaces. Moseley Road Baths is a Grade II* listed building, and the image helped raise awareness of its plight. The project not only documented the pool's community but also contributed to the ongoing efforts to restore the building. This fusion of art and activism is a hallmark of meaningful community-based art projects.

Comparing Community Photography Approaches

Key Takeaways for Aspiring Photographers

• Embrace challenging equipment—large format cameras can yield unique results.
• Collaborate with your subjects to build trust and authenticity.
• Use local history to add depth to your projects.
• Community engagement can amplify the impact of your work.

FAQ