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Best Art Galleries in Birmingham

Dec 09, 2022
Art Galleries in Birmingham

Home to a thriving multicultural community, Birmingham enjoys an artistic heritage to rival pretty much any city in the UK. From grand establishments to independent galleries nestled in the narrow, cobbled streets – Brum has you covered.

If you're planning a weekend in this West Midlands powerhouse, read on as we've rounded up the six best art galleries in the city. You'll also find information on ticket prices and opening times.

• Ikon Gallery
• The Barber Institute of Fine Arts
• The RBSA Gallery
• Iron House
• MAC Birmingham
• St Paul's Gallery

 

Ikon Gallery

Found in the heart of the action, Ikon Gallery is among England's best modern art galleries. It spent much of its early days hopping around the city until it found its permanent location in a stunning neo-gothic building in 1997. Ikon’s programme includes international and local exhibitions, from paintings and sculptures to photography and film. The gallery aims at educating visitors on the power of all forms of artwork through workshops, seminars and tours. And it's free of charge!

 

Opening times: From Tuesday to Sunday between 11:00-17:00

Find out more: https://www.ikon-gallery.org/

The Barber Institute of Fine Arts

Located on Birmingham University campus, The Baber Institute of Fine Arts is home to an outstanding art collection. Named one of the 'UK's finest small European art galleries', it hosts permanent and temporary exhibitions which range from the 13th to 20th century. Here you'll find masterpieces by Picasso, Van Gogh, Monet and Rembrandt, and one of the world's largest coin collections. All of this and more, free of charge.

 

Opening times: From Tuesday to Sunday between 10:00-17:00

Find out more: https://barber.org.uk/

The RBSA Gallery

Sitting in the heart of Brum's Jewellery Quarter, the RBSA Gallery is a must-go for all art enthusiasts. This artist-led charity was established in 1821 and received its royal charter from Queen Victoria in 1868. Today, the gallery is operated by the Royal Birmingham Society of Artists and is built across three floors. The ground floor exhibits jewellery, ceramics, glass and textiles, while the second and third floors encompass art from individual artists and groups.

 

Opening times: From Tuesday to Sunday between 10:30-17:00

Find out more: https://www.rbsa.org.uk/

Iron House

Found in Brum's beating heart, Iron House is by far one of the city's best art galleries. Previously a pawn shop and an underground nightclub, this venue re-invented itself into a contemporary art space. It was founded by gallerists, event managers and marketers and showcases its work in style.

 

Opening times: From Monday to Saturday between 09:00-17:00

Find out more: https://iron-house.co.uk/

MAC Birmingham

Lying on the edge of Cannon Hill Park, the Midlands Art Centre has been one of the staples of Birmingham's artistic scene for centuries. Anyone with an interest in theatre should visit, with the main theatre and Hexagon hosting some of the best companies working today.

 

Opening times: From Monday to Sunday between 09:00-21:00

Find out more: https://macbirmingham.co.uk/

St Paul's Gallery

Overlooking the beautiful St Paul's Cathedral, St Paul's Gallery is equally compelling. This commercial gallery is the world's largest retailer of signed music-related art and brims with album artwork, vinyl covers and photography. Explore a vast collection of the greatest of all times, including David Bowie, Pink Floyd and the Rolling Stones.

 

Opening times: From Monday to Friday between 09:00-21:00

Find out more: https://stpaulsgallery.com/

 

Birmingham is the homeland of fine art, with endless art galleries to explore. When here, be sure to visit its fascinating museums and try the delicious local food. It won't let you down!

 

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