West Brom to unveil a new mosaic artwork
Albion are set to unveil a unique piece of artwork that celebrates the goal of creating an all inclusive Baggies community.
Proud Baggies, the Albion’s LGBT+ supporters association, have collated hundreds of fans’ photos to construct a mosaic that re-creates the group’s insignia, writes Bradley Rice.
Sunday’s home game against Swansea will mark the midday unveiling of the logo on the big screens at the Hawthorns.
Piero Zizzi, founder of Proud Baggies, identifies the mosaic as a symbol of unity and togetherness.
“The mosaic represents the importance of community in sport,” he said.
“We’re often asked why LGBT+ supporter groups are needed and some suggest they may be divisive and this is in some way a reaction to that.
“LGBT+ allies are incredibly important to us and we wanted to show that we’re all in this together and each one of us is part of a bigger picture.”
Saturday’s match is also Albion’s annual Rainbow Laces event, showing the Baggies’ support for Stonewall, the UK’s largest LGBT+ charity.
Martin Swain, Albion communications director, supports the project and believes it demonstrates the club’s willingness to embrace everybody within the football family.
“We are very proud of our record of embracing diversity and we are delighted to support this incredible piece of art,” he said. “We look forward to the image becoming a feature at The Hawthorns to ensure the Proud Baggies message remains a vibrant element of the club.
“Proud Baggies have been a progressive and energetic addition to the Albion family, helping to inspire engagement from other groups within our fan base and long may that be the case.”
For those fans unable to attend the Swansea clash, an interactive version of the fan mosaic will be available at www.proudbaggies.com, following the game.
