Exhibition exploring the lives of people from inner city Birmingham extended by popular demand.

Echoes celebrates the communities of Digbeth and Highgate and is based on the stories and memories of individuals who’ve worked and lived in the two neighbourhoods since the 1960s.

Created by Friction Arts, the exhibition fills the entire ground-floor of The Edge, transforming Friction’s HQ into places of work and play – from a grandmothers’ front room and an industrial site, to a cafe and pub. Each space is filled with layers of association: a derelict factory space may represent the decline of key industries in the city, loss of skills, and unemployment, but also the camaraderie of workers, and how such places later became playgrounds for local children, or no-go areas.

Offering a snapshot of mid-20th century life, the meticulously crafted spaces also feature audio recordings of anecdotes and yarns, recollections of personal triumphs and tragedies by those whose lives are tied to the districts: landlords, home-workers, factory workers, bouncers, community leaders – all everyday people leading everyday, remarkable lives. Sandra Hall, Co Director of Friction Arts, said: “We’ve had an overwhelming response from people who have visited the show so have added a further 14 tours to meet demand, extending our run by two weeks. Since opening in August, we’ve met some incredible people, heard some amazing stories about Digbeth and Highgate, and been blown over by the responses of both young and old.”

Echoes is open Thursday, Friday and Saturday until Saturday 30 November 2013, at The Edge, 79-81 Cheapside, Birmingham. Admission is free, but places must be pre-booked in advance via www.digbethechoes.com [email protected] or 0121 772 6160