The School of Art, previously run by the Society of Arts, was transferred to the Corporation of Birmingham in 1885. A new building to house it was built in Margaret Street, Birmingham on land given by W Cregoe Colmore and contributions towards the building costs were received from Miss Louisa Anne Ryland and the Messrs Richard and George Tangye. Probably the most characteristic building of its designer John Henry Chamberlain, it was seen to completion by his partner William Martin after his untimely death.
This medal commemorates both the building and its designer.