Tracing Glass Podcast is now live!

A new podcast reflecting on Birmingham Cathedral’s four stained-glass windows from a new and unique perspective has now been launched!

Tracing Glass tells a living history of how Birmingham-born Edward Burne-Jones’ collaboration with William Morris birthed a masterpiece that mirrors the world we live in – reflecting the politics and history of their times, but also those of our own.

This innovative and inclusive project has been a collaboration between Birmingham Cathedral and We Don’t Settle – a not-for-profit organisation working with young people who are minoritised by society systems and structures, to amplify unheard voices and platform untold stories through arts, culture and heritage. Tracing Glass is also part of the Divine Beauty Project – which saw the physical conservation of the cathedral’s four remarkable stained-glass windows in 2023. This was completed alongside an extensive programme of extensive public engagement activities. This was supported by National Lottery Players via a grant from the National Lottery Heritage Fund.

During the four-episode series, hosts Olivia Agbe and Rumbidzai Savanhu take the listener on a journey through time. They uncover how art can uplift communities. They also explore how the windows are portals into history, spirituality, and human experience, through candid conversations about art, symbolism, and historical context. The podcast episodes were  researched and written by Dr. Renee Landell.

Tracing Glass was launched at Birmingham Cathedral’s Festival of Voices on Thursday 8 August. During the event, attendees were able to listen to the trailer of the podcast. This was presented alongside poetry read by writers from a range of backgrounds and experiences.

The Revd Andy Delmege, Canon Missioner at Birmingham Cathedral said:

“It’s been a delight for Birmingham Cathedral to commission these exciting podcasts.  We are committed to being a cathedral for our diverse city and region. We are also growing and deepening our understanding as we hear new and critical perspectives on our heritage.  Tracing Glass is an important contribution.”

Andreea Chelaru, Director of We Don’t Settle, said:

“Tracing Glass’ is a fantastic podcast series in so many ways. The young Black women who co-designed the episodes creatively shaped a new narrative around one the most iconic pieces of art from Birmingham. The whole process of co-creation with Birmingham Cathedral is a great example of how heritage organisations can serve minoritised communities, through giving them space to have full autonomy and resources to influence and interpret artistic practices and discussions.”

The podcast is available on the Tracing Glass Podcast page, on Spotify, Amazon music and other podcasting platforms.

More Tracing Glass news

Divine Beauty is generously supported by National Lottery players, via The National Lottery Heritage Fund.