Description

The Octagon shows the towering shell of Birmingham’s iconic skyscraper during its construction. I painted it at night, when the glowing tarpaulin at the top lit the structure and the lift shaft rose beside it. Meanwhile, cars circled around the base. Their headlights bounced off the wooden panels while their taillights left threads of white and gold weaving across the foreground.

Inspiration for The Octagon

I watched this building grow over time, returning again and again to record its progress. At first, the cranes perched on top reminded me of insect antennae, while the unusual octagonal form steadily climbed higher into the Birmingham skyline. Eventually, it became the tallest building in the city at 155 metres, with 49 storeys. It also stands as the world’s tallest pure octagonal residential skyscraper, forming a landmark part of the Paradise redevelopment.

Techniques and Media Used

I chose to work on a smooth board so that I could capture detail without the interference of canvas texture. Most importantly, I wanted to master the graduating blues of the evening sky, which seemed to embrace the construction. The Octagon itself glowed with red crane lights and a sense of life. Finally, I painted the circling cars with just enough light trails to suggest energy and movement, without overwhelming the composition.

• Title: The Octagon
• Artist: Julie Swinsco
• Medium: Oil on board
• Frame: Black wooden tray frame
• Size (including frame): 36 × 50 cm
• Authenticity: Hand-signed, Certificate of Authenticity included

This original Birmingham skyscraper cityscape captures the drama of a landmark under construction, alive with light, motion, and atmosphere.