The Open is an annual outdoor photography and visual art exhibition and competition, delivered by Birmingham Colmore in partnership with Central BID
Open to emerging artists across the city, The Open celebrates Birmingham’s creativity by transforming some of the city centre’s most iconic public spaces into open-air galleries. Each year, the exhibition attracts thousands of visitors and provides artists with a powerful platform to share their work with new audiences.
Free, accessible and community-led, The Open is designed to showcase the very best of Birmingham’s creative talent while bringing art into the everyday life of the city.
The Open begins with an open call competition, inviting artists from across Birmingham to submit their work in response to an annual theme.
All printable forms of artwork are welcome, including:
A diverse judging panel made up of artists, curators and creative professionals selects a shortlist, with standout pieces displayed in a large-scale public exhibition in the heart of the city.
Finalists and winners receive cash prizes, professional portfolio reviews and city-wide exposure, helping support the next generation of Birmingham’s creative talent.
Each year, The Open culminates in a free, outdoor exhibition across key city centre locations, including:
Shortlisted artworks are displayed in public spaces, allowing residents, workers and visitors to experience Birmingham’s creativity as part of their daily journey.
Visitors can also take part by voting for their favourite piece in the People’s Choice Award, making The Open a truly interactive city-wide celebration.
Every edition of The Open is inspired by a new theme, encouraging artists to respond creatively to ideas that connect to the city, its people and its future. Past themes have explored identity, place, light, culture and transformation – capturing Birmingham’s spirit in powerful and unexpected ways.
The result is a diverse and inspiring exhibition that reflects the voices, stories and talent found across the city.
The Open is delivered through the Colmore Placemaking Working Group, which focuses on using art, culture and placemaking to create a District that is welcoming, inspiring and inclusive.
Through projects like The Open, we animate public spaces, support the creative economy, and connect people to the District in new and meaningful ways.
Find out more about our Colmore Placemaking Working Group.
