Black Country Type II / Tom Hicks

In 2023, The Modernist published Black Country Type, the first retrospective book by visual artist Tom Hicks. It sold out quickly and received international attention, including being listed in Dezeen magazine’s top ten architecture and design books of 2023.  

Black Country Type II is the new instalment in Hicks’ ongoing exploration of the post-industrial landscape of the Black Country.

Hicks typically takes photographs during freeform walks and cycle rides through the Black Country region, applying a fine art sensibility to his representation of the urban environment.

In this series of images he applies his unique aesthetic, focusing on words, typography, handmade lettering and signs. He also photographs ‘types’ of architectural features, objects and the post-industrial landscape of the area.

For Hicks, photography is “a medium that allows me to synthesise a wide range of interests, including architecture, design, typography, art, popular culture and history”. 

Known for his trademark compositional style, he relies on direct sunlight to illuminate his subject matter. His work also demonstrates a keen eye for the humour and the surreal in everyday life.

This new volume will appeal to designers, architects, artists, students, the quietly mischievous, and anyone with an interest in photography of the contemporary urban environment.

Photographs by Tom Hicks
Foreword by Robert Plant
Design by Alfie Hicks
Hardcover, 144 pages,
Colour
250x200mm

Published by The Modernist in May 2026