A painting of “A Lane at Hamstead, Staffordshire” by English painter William Ellis is to feature in a new book after being re-discovered on Wikimedia Commons.
Andy Mabbett, who has been working as an independent Wikipedian in Residence at The New Art Gallery Walsall, found the out of copyright image and brought it to the attention of the editors of “Flora of Birmingham and the Black Country” who were very keen to use the image in their book.
This is a great example of how open content can add value to any project.
The book is being published by the local Botanical Society in collaboration with the Wildlife Trust and EcoRecord with profits being used to help preserve local habitats.
If you’re interested in buying a copy of the book please email enquiries@ecorecord.org.uk