An art lover’s guide to the 9 best art galleries in Birmingham
I’ve always loved art. But I must admit, I was a late bloomer when visiting art galleries. But ever since my friend took me to my first art gallery years ago, I’ve made it a habit to explore Birmingham’s vibrant art scene.
Whether it’s world art from centuries ago or modern masterpieces, the city’s art galleries have them all. Each one also offers something different. Some have an in-house bar, a unique art style, or a distinct goal and vision.
But if you really love art, then the best art galleries in Birmingham will make you smile. These are my picks.
1. Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery
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Website: https://www.birminghammuseums.org.uk/
Address: Chamberlain Sq, B3 3DH
Contact Details: +44 121 348 8000
Hours: Monday to Tuesday: Closed | Wednesday to Sunday: 10 AM – 5 PM
Pricing: ££
Right at the heart of the city centre is Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery. It was the first museum-slash-art gallery I ever visited. I just remember being amazed at the sheer number of artworks and artefacts here.
The arts and design collection is especially impressive. It houses over 50,000 art pieces, including British and European art. But what takes my breath away every time is the world collection, which dates back to the 18th century and shows the works of the world’s best artists.
I also love the dress and textiles section. I’d like to think of myself as fashion-forward, and this particular collection gives in-depth insights into how Europeans dressed through time. It also shows the garments and textiles used by different generations.
Pro Tip:
Regularly visit the Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery’s website for special exhibitions. Among the exhibitions the art gallery has organised are a Rembrandt showcase and a wildlife photography exhibit.
2. Ikon Gallery
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Website: https://www.ikon-gallery.org/
Address: 1 Brindley Pl, Oozells Sq, B1 2HS
Contact Details: +44 121 248 0708
Hours: Monday: Closed | Tuesday to Sunday: 11 AM – 5 PM
Pricing: ££
While I’m more drawn to classical art, I’m still smitten by the appeal of contemporary art. For that, I go to the Ikon Gallery, which is housed in an old Victorian school building. But trust me, the only thing old here is the venue, while the art on display is thoroughly modern.
Among the contemporary masterpieces I’ve admired here at Ikon are Haroon Mirza’s immersive and interactive sculptures and video storytelling by artists like John Akomfrah. I’ve also seen video art, conceptual photography, and multisensory installations.
What I like most about Ikon is that the galleries constantly change. There’s always something new to admire and decipher, and there’s a good chance it’s vastly different from the one it replaced.
Plus, I like the Ikon shop and its collection of books, stationeries, and homeware. It’s a nice touch and is all for charity.
Pro Tip:
Explore Ikon on your mobile! Download the Bloomberg Connects app and open the Ikon gallery guide. It’s a great virtual way to explore the gallery anywhere you are.
3. Eastside Projects
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Website: http://www.eastsideprojects.org/
Address: 86 Heath Mill Ln, Deritend, B9 4AR
Contact Details: +44 121 771 1778
Hours: Sunday to Tuesday: Closed | Wednesday to Saturday: 12 PM – 5 PM
Pricing: £
Like Ikon, Eastside Projects is an ever-changing playground for contemporary art. It’s a space where art and avant-garde ideas meet, and this is evident in the different exhibits. Among them are large-scale installations, interactive performances, and video exhibitions.
When I say Eastside is a space for art, I also mean it’s a haven for artists. This gallery is run by artists for artists. It’s why you’d regularly find them here, whether emerging or internationally recognised already.
And because it’s for artists, almost everyone is welcome to submit an exhibition. The gallery regularly changes its exhibits to keep things fresh, giving many artists a chance to get featured in one of the city’s most popular contemporary art destinations.
Lastly, I like Eastside’s Long-Term Artworks Collection. These remnants of previous exhibits have been recycled, altered, or changed to make new art.
Pro Tip:
If you’re into making art, join Eastside’s “artist-run multiverse.” It’s a community of artists who work together to make art, hold exhibits, build one another up, and more.
4. Midlands Art Centre
Media credit: mac_birmingham
Website: https://macbirmingham.co.uk/
Address: Cannon Hill Park, B12 9QH
Contact Details: +44 121 446 3232
Hours: Monday to Sunday: 9 AM – 9 PM
Pricing: £
One of the best things about art is that it brings people together, from the artists to the art lovers. That’s precisely the case with the Midlands Art Centre (MAC) and the art community it’s fostering.
It has something for everyone. There are ever-changing contemporary art exhibits, poetry readings, and theatre shows. It could be cinematic masterpieces, interactive exhibitions, or anything considered art.
I also like that MAC offers hands-on experiences for established artists and everyday art lovers like me. I heard these workshops are enjoyable, so I plan to take the stained glass course or creative writing.
Plus, the gallery has its own restaurant, KILN. With tasty home recipes and a homely ambience, it’s the perfect place to unwind after a day of art.
Pro Tip:
After an art session, treat yourself to KILN’s homemade pizza! I highly recommend the Margherita and garlic & herb focaccia for a satisfying bite.
5. Centrala
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Website: https://centrala-space.org.uk/
Address: Unit 4, Minerva Works, 158 Fazeley St, B5 5RT
Contact Details: +44 121 513 0240
Hours: Monday to Sunday: 9 AM – 9 PM
Pricing: £
Centrala is unique because it’s unafraid to challenge conventions and is unapologetic about doing so. Mainly, its art tackles the contentious subjects of migration, gender identity, and social change. It also touches on inclusion for migrant communities.
This unique approach to art is evident in the different visual exhibits, art installations, and paintings the team puts up. The gallery also organises concerts, poetry readings, and social discussions to keep with its socially conscious approach to art.
The community is also something to admire. Aside from film viewing, they also hold live music, art and social discussions, and cultural events.
But my guilty pleasure when it comes to Centrala is its online shop. It has all sorts of eclectic ornaments made mostly by Central and Eastern European migrants in the UK. In fact, I’ve already bought odd necklaces and weird ornaments.
Pro Tip:
Go to the “Research” section of the Centrala website and check out some thought-provoking reading materials. They’ll give you a better sense of what the gallery is all about.
6. Royal Birmingham Society of Artists
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Website: https://rbsa.org.uk/
Address: 4 Brook St, B3 1SA
Contact Details: +44 121 236 4353
Hours: Sunday to Monday: Closed | Tuesday to Saturday: 10:30 AM – 5 PM
Pricing: ££
I’d describe the Royal Birmingham Society of Artists (RBMA) as home to the region’s finest traditional and contemporary artworks.
It dates back to 1821 and has been championing local and national talent. This means the paintings, sculptures, and ceramics displayed are among the best Birmingham and the UK offer.
Apart from the art, one great thing about RBMA is the gallery’s more intimate setting. The displays are placed somewhat apart, and the flow of people is mainly controlled. This lets art lovers appreciate the finer details of each piece without the usual crowds.
Another great thing about this gallery is that it always calls on emerging and established artists to submit works for exhibitions. I think it’s a great way to empower local talent, especially since two of my colleagues have already gotten their masterpieces displayed here.
Pro Tip:
Want to commission a high-calibre local talent to do artwork for you? Then get in touch with the RBMA! It’s got a vast network of over 200 artists in the city and all over the UK who’d be more than willing to help—for a fee, of course.
7. Grand Union
Media credit: granduniongallery
Website: https://www.grand-union.org.uk/
Address: Minerva Works, 158 Fazeley St, B5 5RS
Contact Details: +44 121 643 9079
Hours: Sunday to Tuesday: Closed | Wednesday to Saturday: 12 PM – 5 PM
Pricing: £
Grand Union is more than just an art gallery. It’s a safe haven for artists and a movement that promotes arts. Rather than just showcase art, Grand Union helps nurture it with the end goals of social betterment and equitable living.
This means it aims to improve social conditions through art, with artists acting as agents of change. That’s why you shouldn’t be surprised if the art pieces here—installations and sculptures, among others—depict social realities.
Another thing that sets Grand Union apart from other galleries is that featured artists regularly visit the gallery. But they don’t just go behind the scenes; they actually mingle with visitors to talk about art and society.
Pro Tip:
Become part of the Grand Union community. You get to join environment-friendly art projects and help put up art exhibits in different communities. You also get to unleash the socially aware artist in you with art collaborations with local artists.
8. Stryx
Media credit: stryx_gallery
Website: https://stryx.co.uk/
Address: 13, Minerva Works, 158 Fazeley St, B5 5RS
Contact Details: [email protected]
Hours: Sunday to Tuesday: By appointment | Wednesday: Closed | Thursday to Saturday: 12 PM – 4 PM
Pricing: £
Stryx is an artist-led studio and space showcasing contemporary art, notably visual arts like paintings and sculptures. It also features various art installations.
It’s a platform for emerging and mid-career artists, which isn’t surprising since fine arts students founded it. Personally, I like the diversity here. I especially love the VR projects and the art installations.
Given this diversity, it’s great that Stryx expanded its space to the city’s famed Jewellery Quarter. This facility is an extension of Stryx, giving it more room to showcase the city’s emerging artists.
It certainly helps that the Jewellery Quarter has an in-house cafe. It’s just all the more reason for a return visit.
Pro Tip:
Check the website for the following changes in the exhibit. Time your visit early in the morning to get a behind-the-scenes look at the artists setting it up. You might even get the chance to talk with them about their art.
9. Castle Fine Art
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Website: https://www.castlefineart.com/uk
Address: Unit 29-31 Level 2, The Mailbox, Wharfside St, B1 1RD
Contact Details: +44 121 384 3007
Hours: Monday to Sunday: 10 AM – 5 PM
Pricing: £££
Castle Fine Art has this castle-like vibe. It just feels like you’re walking in a castle, maybe because of the high ceilings, gleaming wooden flooring, and wide off-white walls. There’s just this feeling of luxury here.
The artworks themselves are fit for royalty. It’s even home to original fine art with provenance, hand-signed limited-edition pieces, and contemporary sculptures. Meanwhile, the artists featured here blend renowned and emerging talent.
I think having an in-gallery bar, as Castle Fine Art does, is a cool touch. There’s something regal about admiring great art while sipping wine or bubbly. A fine art consultant is also ready to tell you the story behind every artwork.
Pro Tip:
If you want a more intimate setting to admire art, inquire about private viewings. It’s an exclusive experience that will elevate your visit.