Monthly creative festival
Peace Garden Open Day 🌄🌺
Sat 8th February 11.30am – 3.30pm
All welcome. Drop-in.Come and enjoy our beautiful Peace Garden this Saturday.
🌱 Explore the plants and wildlife
🌱 Relax and reflect on the changing of the seasons with an optional activity to leave a message in the garden
🌱 Visit the Adil Khalid Remembrance Bench
Drop-in / All welcome
Join us at MIAH Islamic Arts Gallery to be introduced to the traditional techniques in the #art of Islamic #manuscript #bookbinding
During this workshop, you will examine a traditional manuscript in-person and learn the basic techniques of constructing a traditional Islamic manuscript. From collating the pages into signatures and sewing them into a textblock, to attaching them to a soft binding. You will create your own soft-cover notebook from scratch to take home and enjoy.
This is an opportunity to get a glimpse into the traditional craft of bookbinding. All materials will be provided.
Who is this course for? All levels of ability are welcome. Suitable for ages 11+ years.
This workshop will be delivered by Dr. Neelam Hussain, Curator of the Mingana Collection of Middle Eastern Manuscripts at the Cadbury Research Library, University of Birmingham. She is a specialist in Islamic manuscripts and material culture.
Tickets
Tickets must be booked in advance using the link.
Standard Ticket: £21 (+ ticket fees)
Link below and in bio (under upcoming events):
Fresh from his role as Artistic Director of the Marrakech Storytelling Festival, John Row continues to captivate audiences worldwide with his masterful storytelling. A cherished figure in the realm of folk tales and oral tradition, John has spent decades weaving vivid and engaging narratives that breathe life into myths, legends, and folk tales from every corner of the globe. His warm, resonant voice and unparalleled ability to create magic through words make him a celebrated presence at festivals, schools, libraries, and community events across the UK and beyond.
John’s roots trace back to the vibrant folk scene of the 1960s and 70s, where his natural gift for narrative first took centre stage. Over the years, he has become a respected performer not only for his expertise but also for his dedication to preserving the art of oral tradition. Drawing from an impressive array of cultural sources—traditional English tales, ancient myths, and indigenous stories—John creates immersive performances that transport listeners to other times and places.
Beyond enthralling audiences, John brings storytelling into education and community spaces as a tool for learning and empowerment. His interactive workshops encourage participants of all ages to craft their own stories, fostering creativity, communication, and a deeper appreciation for the spoken word. His unique ability to connect with people from all walks of life cements his position as a beloved figure in the storytelling community.
John has also contributed significantly to preserving the art of storytelling. From recording traditional tales to participating in international festivals and collaborating with artists, his work champions storytelling as a living tradition. Through his projects, he has not only entertained but also highlighted the importance of cultural heritage and its place in modern society.
Known for his humour, humanity, and timeless style, John’s storytelling transcends mere performance, becoming an experience that resonates deeply with audiences. Whether sharing a poignant folk tale, a light-hearted anecdote, or an epic legend, John Row continues to inspire and enchant all who have the pleasure of listening to him.
The Upholstery Group will have their doors open so you can visit and see their work – and maybe get involved – all day, Lower Gallery, The Old Print Works
Browse, Borrow and Return is thisThe first Browse, Borrow & Return of 2026 will be on Saturday 10th Jan 📕 It will coincide with Balsall Heath Second Saturday (@balsallheathsecondsaturday) so there will be lots going on throughout the day @oldprintworksbrum and locally!
All BRL activities will take place in the Drawing Room @oldprintworksbrum unless stated otherwise
Browse, Borrow & Return
Explore the Birmingham Resistance Library collection and borrow a book. No membership required. You can browse the catalogue in advance online too at www.birminghamresistancelibrary.co.uk (link in bio)
1-5 pm
Design and Colour in a Bookmark
Drop-in activity suitable for all ages
1-5pm
REC’s Community Pop-up DVD Library
Radical Exhibition Collective’s (@radicalexhibition) community DVD library has been created with the intent to increase access to independent film and moving image in Birmingham. With a focus on platforming subaltern expression and films that may be unavailable to freely stream, rent or find online, REC’s pop-up DVD library recognises the value film holds in the cultural sphere and seeks to address gaps in engaging with it.
1-5pm
Book Return💫
If you’ve borrowed a book from the library, please remember to return it this upcoming Browse, Borrow & Return session
Donations✨
Donate a book on the day, link in bio for our wish list or donate a book related to ‘resistance’ that you have read and recommend.
About REC
@radicalexhibition
Radical Exhibition Collective is a film collective with the aim to support the development of access to film culture in Birmingham. Through diasporic programming and centring subaltern expression, REC seeks to increase access to independent, archival and experimental film and moving image. They recognise the potential of film watching spaces as sites of resistance, community gathering and a tool for collective liberation.
From September 2024, PRISM Photography Network has been running a 4 month long series of Photography Workshops. Every Saturday morning we met to study photography, discuss our practice and document the life of Stirchley, We ultimately aim at producing an exhibition at The Old Print Works. The project is led by Francesco Falciani and Oksana Bischin. On Saturday 11th January, the group will be taking portraits at the Old Print Works – From 11am The Old Print Works
SEWING SOLIDARITY EXHIBITION 🧵✨ ✊
This exhibition showcases the artworks produced by Sewing Solidarity, a GAP project led by artist Jane Thakoordin that invited young people aged 13 – 18 to create a series of new banners for Balsall Heath and The GAP inspired by the trade union banner tradition.
Over several months, young people took part in a series of sessions at The GAP in which we explored working class stories, local histories and banner art, and experimented with textile design techniques and slogans to co-design and collectively create five beautiful banners.
The final designs bring together traditional and contemporary elements, and are inspired by the diversity and culture of Balsall Heath, and the richness of its community spirit and generosity despite not being monetarily rich. In times of difficulty, people have come together to support one another and show solidarity, despite our differences.
In the trade union tradition, the Sewing Solidarity banners have been created as lasting pieces that can be used at community events, protests, demonstrations and celebrations to represent our solidarity for years to come. Please let us know if you have any suggestions for how or where these banners might be displayed in the local area!
About the artists
Jane Thakoordin is a participatory artist with over 30 years experience of co-creation with groups and organisations both regionally and nationally. Using textiles as the main medium, Jane draws on her background as a mental health professional and tutor to create spaces where people can experiment and express themselves. Follow Jane @janethakoordin_
Project participants – Nimra, Naveera, Ruby, Mohamed, Mohammed, Nasaradin, Mariya, Zahra, Chi, Ezra, Jo, Hala, Mariya, Ayda, and everyone who joined us at Balsall Heath Second Saturday!
Funded by @westmids_ca and @bhamcitycouncil
Crafting activities with Itzatna Arts.
ITZATNA ARTS COLLECTIVE are an emerging artist collective based in the Midlands that create intercultural collaborations between artists and diaspora communities between Mexico, Latin America, and the UK.
For more information https://www.itzatna.org
Join us at MIAH Islamic Arts Gallery to be introduced to the traditional techniques of Islamic manuscript bookbinding.
During this workshop, you will examine a traditional manuscript in-person and learn the basic techniques of constructing a traditional Islamic manuscript. From collating the pages into signatures and sewing them into a textblock, to attaching them to a soft binding. You will create your own soft-cover notebook from scratch to take home and enjoy.
This is an opportunity to get a glimpse into the traditional craft of bookbinding. All materials will be provided.
Who is this course for? All levels of ability are welcome. Suitable for ages 11+ years.
This workshop will be delivered by Dr. Neelam Hussain, Curator of the Mingana Collection of Middle Eastern Manuscripts at the Cadbury Research Library, University of Birmingham. She is a specialist in Islamic manuscripts and material culture.
Tickets
Tickets must be booked in advance using the link.
Standard Ticket: £21 (+ ticket fees)
REFUND POLICY: Please note that tickets are only refunded (minus the Eventbrite admin fee) if requested more than 7 days before the event.
DUE TO POPULAR DEMAND, THIS BOOKBINDING WORKSHOP WILL BE REPEATED ONE MORE TIME IN FEBRUARY.
Through translations, manuscripts, and groundbreaking inventions by Arab and Persian scholars of the Middle Ages, this exhibition reveals how ideas and science traveled across continents, shaping our world today. Featuring artwork from manuscripts, infographics, original objects, facsimiles, short-films and an activity table for different ages to explore the themes of the exhibition, there is lots to do for everyone.
Public Exhibition Dates: Thursday 14th November to Saturday 21st December 2024; open Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays. Initially we are only releasing November dates – the December dates will only be released if there is sufficient demand beyond November.
Admission: Free, but limited tickets so please book in advance (please check our website for timeslots and to reserve your visit).
SCHOOLS, HOME EDUCATION & YOUTH GROUPS WELCOME:
Our exhibition dives into STEM and history topics for KS2-KS4, from the Islamic Golden Age to the Silk Roads and the history of medicine. Perfect for an educational trip! Limited guided talk slots are open on Thursdays & Fridays. Email us at contact@miahfoundation.com with your group size, 2-3 date options (Thurs/Fri, Nov-Dec), and preferred time (12pm, 2:30pm, or 4:30pm).
Please share and spread the word. We look forward to welcoming you!
MIAH Foundations weekly story-time club continues alongside the new exhibition, ‘From Samarkand to Salerno: Roads of
Enlightenment.’
This enriching club delves into the lives and
achievements of Muslim scholars and scientists,
serving as the perfect complement to the exhibition. It’s also a great opportunity for your children to engage with the exhibition in an interactive and meaningful way.
Join us this Saturday for a focus on Al-Sufi- In this exciting storytime session, kids will learn about Al-Sufi, the renowned astronomer, and his contributions to the study of the stars and constellations. They’ll explore how Al-Sufi cataloged stars and mapped the skies. Following the story, kids will create their own galaxy.
Join us every Saturday, from 10:30 AM to
11:30 AM, for a journey of learning and inspiration!
As part of the experience, each child will receive a
Storytime passport to collect custom stickers for every
session they attend, enhancing their educational
adventure.
Please visit the link to book your place: Link in bio
Please note: This event is suitable for ages 5 to 7
years, and all children must be accompanied by an
adult at all times.
12 onwards
Screen printing drop in. Come and create a screen printed poster celebrating Birmingham as a welcoming city and place of refuge. Cut out your own shapes to use, or use some of our own. All materials provided.
Free/donation to Kings Heath Action for Refugees.
Bric a brac/clothes/curios and more – pick up some gifts from the festive market at Balsall Heath Second Saturday
If you would like to be part of the market, please message us – info@secondsaturday.org.uk
If you’re interested in learning analogue black and white processing, these two workshops are a great introduction to developing film and making prints from negatives. More info here https://darkroombirmingham.co.uk/
Join us for a unique workshop where participants will create botanical illustrations inspired by Kitab al-Diryak, a historic Arabic pharmacopeia known for its detailed plant depictions. Guided by a skilled artist, you’ll explore traditional art techniques while taking a deeper dive into the pages of this beautiful manuscript. Whether you’re a beginner or experienced artist, this workshop offers a creative journey into the intersection of art, history, and botany. All materials will be provided, and no prior experience is necessary.
This workshop is being run as part of the ‘Balsall Heath Second Saturdays’ programme – a monthly mini-festival celebrating making, creativity, community, local culture and the arts held on the second Saturday of every month.
12 – 3pm | Saturday 14th December 2024 | MIAH Gallery, Moseley Community Hub | 496 Moseley Road Balsall Heath B12 9AH.
Secure your place below. We will allow a small number of walk-up bookings on the day, subject to availability.
✨❄️The GAP Winter Craft Fair❄️✨ Saturday 14th December, 11am – 4pm
Pop down to @oldprintworksbrum on 14th December for a festive fun-filled day out whilst supporting local artists and young people. Expect an exciting array of unique handmade gifts and goodies for sale – all made by local young artists, designers and crafters – in amongst our cosy community cafe The MIX and during the bustling @balsallheathsecondsaturday.
Featuring….
@_achastudio
@apundantlyclear
@artbyamjam
@hannahmandrews
@capture.and.create.media
@jenkoandco
Mangoonthecanvas
Knittingcrochetions
Christmas Party/December 14th from 5.30pm in the Drawing Room/Bar plus you can bring your own/food plus you can bring a dish too/open to co-workers, studio partners and their members and friends and everyone who has been part of our journey this year
11am – 1pm
Come and make a sturdy beautiful collage gift box. All welcome. No prior experience required.
12 onwards
Screen printing drop in. Come and create a screen printed poster celebrating Birmingham as a welcoming city and place of refuge. Cut out your own shapes to use, or use some of our own. All materials provided.
Free/donation to Kings Heath Action for Refugees.
Join ITZATNA for a colourful celebration of Life and Memory: Day of the Dead Arts & Crafts Workshop!
Step into a world of vibrant colours, rich traditions, and heartfelt creativity as we honour Mexico’s Day of the Dead through arts and crafts! In this unique hands-on family-friendly workshop, you’ll learn about the magic of ‘Día de los Muertos’ while exploring traditional Mexican symbols like marigold flowers, monarch butterflies, hummingbirds, and the enchanting *Árboles de Vida* (Trees of Life) charms crafted in clay.
What to Expect:
– Paper Marigolds: Learn to make delicate, vibrant *flores de cempasúchil*, the iconic marigold flowers that light the path for spirits with their radiant orange glow.
– Butterfly Ancestors: Craft your own beautiful butterflies, symbolising the souls of ancestors returning to visit during this sacred time.
– Hummingbird Creations: Capture the spirit of the hummingbird, a beloved symbol of love, resilience and joy, in your own unique art.
– Clay Charms: Create your own small *árbol de vida*, or tree of life, to honour loved ones and celebrate the beauty of the cycle of life.
Whether you’re an experienced artist or simply excited to try something new, this workshop is the perfect way to celebrate Día de los Muertos in a meaningful and creative way. Bring friends, family, or come solo and connect with others who are excited to honour these beautiful traditions.
Reserve your spot today, and join us as we remember, create, and celebrate together. ¡Todos son bienvenidos!
Suitable for families with children aged 4+
All Workshops are Drop-In & ‘Pay What You Can’ donations.
Any questions? Email us on contact[at]itzatna[dot]org or DM us on socials @itzatna.arts // @itzatna_arts
12.00pm- 2:00pm | MIAH Gallery
Join us for an afternoon of painting the Damascus Rose on your own ceramic charger or bowl while you learn about the story and symbolism of this beautiful flower. At the end of the session, you can take home your own ceramic to decorate your home or contain your favourite items.
Who is this course for? All levels of ability are welcome. Suitable for adults and children aged 9+ years. All materials are provided.
More information and book here: https://miahfoundation.com/events/painting-the-damascus-rose-on-ceramics
Throughout the afternoon in The Drawing Room…
Many of you will be familiar with Abid and his songs calling out the horrors and injustice of the current situation.
Using his background in Rock and Folk his songs channel the long tradition of songs of protest and defiance. He tries to use his voice to say Truth to power.
Please welcome – Abid Baig
2-5PM
The Mix Cafe
Children & family friendly
Craft activities include making:
Craft stall and baked goods for sale. All proceeds will go to MATW Limbs of Hope Project (and supporting a family in Gaza)
£5 per child, £2.50 per additional child
Sat 9 Nov 2024 6:30 PM – 9:00 PM
The GAP Arts Project, 498 Moseley Rd, Balsall Heath, Birmingham B12 9AH
Join us on November 9th, as we listen to (and learn from) traditional Palestinian songs and hymns of resistance brought to us by Maramiya Band.
Promoting Palestinian heritage and history, our evening will also feature a talented Violin player, and powerful Poetry recitations. ✨
🟢 Appetizers, bite-sized food and hot drinks will be available during the break. 🧆☕
🔴 Proceeds from this evening will go to support the Palestine Action prisoners who sacrificed their freedom for the struggle and liberation of the Palestinian people. You can also support our work by donating an additional amount when purchasing your tickets.
⚫ Please note that tickets are required for this event and anyone without a ticket will be unable to attend. 🎫
⚪ Join us for an evening of supporting Palestinian identity and enriching our community that embraces the Palestinian struggle.
We would love your presence and support, and hope to see you there! 🇵🇸
🕖 Doors open at 6.30 pm, event starts at 7.00 pm
🗓️ 9th of November
📍The GAP Arts Project, Balsall Heath, B12 9AH
“Root yourself in the soil, for you will remain here.
The land is your land, young man, this country is our country.
They are ignorant, they do not know that your homeland is eternal.
So stand firm, persevere, and seek reward, for we are all behind you.
How many martyrs have given their lives to achieve certainty.
O owner of the land, hold fast, for the land is the honour of the righteous.”
🇵🇸🇵🇸🇵🇸
P.S. 1. Please let us know of any food allergies beforehand, 2. Please note this event is suitable for children 7+ and not younger.
https://www.tickettailor.com/events/youthfrontforpalestine1/1444973
6:30pm in The Drawing Room at The Old Print Works
Starting my deadlift redemption arc after a difficult training season… In the next few weeks I’m working on getting my deadlift back to 150kg or more.
Raising funds for Palestine is my pre-workout. Any amount, large or small, that you can chip in is massively appreciated. All money pledged goes directly to the Palestinian Children’s Relief Fund (PCRF). See their website www.pcrf.net for more information about their life-saving work.
To donate, click link below
https://pcrf1.app.neoncrm.com/np/clients/pcrf1/campaign.jsp?campaign=37444&fundraiser=954403&
The next Browse, Borrow & Return day is on November 9th in The Drawiing Room at The Old Print Works
Browse, Borrow & Return✨
Explore the Birmingham Resistance Library collection and borrow a book. No membership required. You can browse the catalogue in advance online too at birminghamresistancelibrary.co.uk
1-5 pm
Design and Colour in a Bookmark✨
Drop-in activity suitable for all ages
1-5 pm
The Trinity of Fundamentals Reading Group ✨
Led by @pymbritain
2-4 pm @the____gap Basement
Read and Reflect Circle✨
Led by @pymbritain and @y.f.f.p
4.30-5.30 pm
Book Return✨
If you’ve borrowed a book, please remember to return it this upcoming Browse, Borrow & Return session
Donations✨
Donate a book on the day, either from the wish list or donate a book related to ‘resistance’ that you have read and recommend.
****Full timetable of activities to follow, including games, music, discussion and more*****
Following the inaugural Memories Carried exhibition at the Amnesty International’s London HQ in May 2024, and the launch event at the MIAH Foundation on the 26th October 2024, Art Forward are proud to announce the expanded Memories Carried Campaign and International Touring Exhibition.
The exhibition series brings together over 20 international photographers and activists, including artists from Palestine, the wider Arab Region, across Latin America, the UK and Europe, as well as Israel, all committed to raising funds for charities on the ground in OPT and Lebanon. Exhibitions will take place in Birmingham and Newcastle, UK; Paris, France and Berlin, Germany, supporting Al Haq, Al Mezan, The Ghassan Abu Sittah Children’s Fund, and Health Workers for Palestine.
As part of the campaign, The Wall of Hope initiative will invite the public to take portraits of friends and family with a personal message of hope, which can be submitted online with a donation and an invitation to others to do the same. Beyond raising funds, the aim is to create a digital wall of portraits to offer hope and solidarity with the people of Gaza. This will be exhibited online and internationally at events, including projections on public landmarks.
Through an evolving programme of exhibitions, film screenings and workshops, and most importantly through community building and conversation, this campaign will educate the public, support organisations working on the ground in Gaza and the Occupied West Bank, and build a repository of hope with international reach.
Memories Carried will unite prominent voices on both a global stage and within local communities, denouncing the systematic discrimination of Palestinians under Israel’s system of apartheid.
Upstairs at The Old Print Works 1 pm onwards.
Unleash your creative spirit at Serefina’s iron on vinyl Workshop, where you can transform your crafting ideas into wearable art. Whether you’re a seasoned crafter or just starting out with your family, this hands-on workshop is designed to provide you with the techniques and inspiration needed to create custom designs using iron-on vinyl.
Bring your clothes, tote bag or similar, we have the vinyl. You can find out more about Serefina on her Instagram www.instagram.com/serefina_taylor or on her website SerefinaTaylor.co.uk
