Feeling the draughts in this freeeeezing weather? Improve the cosiness of your home by making a draught excluder to go by the door. You choose the fabrics you want, Kirsty will help by sewing it for you, and you can stuff it! 11am-1pm. All welcome. Free – donations welcome.
Category: Workshops
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Timurid Tiles Painting Workshop
Join us to explore Timurid architecture and create your own ceramic coaster to take home. This workshop is being delivered as supportive programming for the Architecture Course.
The Timurid empire (1370-1507) was founded by Timur, a descendant of Genghis Khan. He made Samarkand (modern-day Uzbekistan) his capital, patroning grand buildings there and making it the crown jewel of his vast empire. Some of the most impressive Timurid constructions in Samarkand include the Registan square, the Shah-i Zinda necropolis, and the Bibi Khanum mosque, named after Timur’s wife.
The Bibi Khanum Mosque is one of Samarkand’s most impressive monuments, and was one the largest and most magnificent mosques of the Islamic world in its time. In typical Timurid fashion, it is adorned with radiant tiles displaying geometric designs, vegetal motifs, and calligraphic compositions, in the classic Timurid colour palette of dark blue, turquoise, and white. By the mid-1900s, its sheer monumentality and frequent earthquakes had led to its structural collapse, but it was restored by the Soviets.
During this workshop, you will study the tile patterns around the Bibi Khanum Mosque in Samarkand, Uzbekistan. You will recreate the central floral composition of the tile design on a ceramic tile that can be taken home to be displayed or used as a coaster. Please note: this workshop focuses on the design of the tile. Due to the length of the workshop, the design will be painted using acrylic paints and not the underglaze.
To secure your place, please book in advance.
Tickets:
Standard Ticket: £12.50 (+ticket fees)
Concessionary Ticket (for students, over 65s and low-income households): £10.00 (+ticket fees)
Who is this course for? All levels of ability are welcome. Suitable for ages 9+. All materials are provided.
REFUND POLICY: Please note that tickets are only refunded (minus the Eventbrite admin fee) if requested more than 7 days before the event.
This workshop is being delivered as part of the ‘Balsall Heath Second Saturdays’ programme – a monthly mini-festival celebrating creativity, community, local culture and the arts, held on the second Saturday of every month.
Image Reference: Bibi Khanum Mosque, Samarkand, Peregrine.
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Wreath Making at The Old Print Works
Join Hannah and Jude for a fun and creative family friendly wreath making workshop.
In this hands-on session, you will craft your very own unique wreath using a variety of locally sourced materials.
All materials included.
The workshop will be held in the Drawing Room at The Old Print Works – with step free access.
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Resisting Erasure – Tatreez: Threads of Resistance
Resisting Erasure is a two-part creative workshop series exploring art as a powerful tool for resistance and storytelling as a means to reclaim identity. Each session offers a blend of historical context, hands-on creation, and space for reflection and discussion. Our fist session will be held during Balsall Heath Second Saturday and will focus on Tatreez: Threads of Resistance.
Tatreez, the intricate Palestinian embroidery tradition, has long served as a method of preserving cultural memory in the face of displacement. This session introduces participants to its technique and symbolism, and invites them to stitch their own bookmarks using a guide or create their own pieces using motifs discussed during the session or those relevant to their personal stories.
This session is part of Beyond the Margin, a 9-month Inspire Hub programme exploring identity, storytelling, and creative resistance.
For more information about Inspire Hub or Beyond the Margins, take a look at our instagram @inspirehub.community. -
Papier-mâché Pen Pots – Workshop
We are excited to collaborate with the ORT gallery and, in conjunction with Balsall Heath Second Saturdays, to host a workshop inspired by the current Exhibition – People of the Garáṇ.
Join us for a hands-on creative workshop to design and paint your own papier-mâché pen pots.
The art of papier-mâché involves two key stages: 1) Sakhtasazi – making the base structure using paper pulp, and 2) Naqashi – hand-painting the intricate decorative patterns.
In this workshop, we will demonstrate the traditional process of preparing paper pulp, making a mould, and creating a smooth surface to paint on decorative motifs. You will be provided with a pre-made mould to design and paint your own papier-mâché object using traditional Kashmiri motifs.
Suitable for adults and children aged 9+ years. All materials are provided.
📅 Dates: Saturday 9th August 2025
⏰ Time: 1:30pm – 4:00pm
📍 Place: MIAH Islamic Arts & Heritage Gallery | 496 Moseley Road | Balsall Heath, Birmingham | B12 9AHTickets:
Standard Course Fee: £12.50 including Eventbrite fees.
Subsidised Fee: £10.00IMAGE REFERENCE: Image: Domed box (Srinagar, Kashmir, ca. 1850), V&A, Accession No. 3-1852
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Kashmiri Art : Numda Craft and Paisley Designs workshop
Explore Kashmiri arts in this hands-on workshop through the Numda technique (felted rugs) and the story behind the paisley motifs.
This workshop celebrates the launch of our collaboration with @ortgallery hosting their new exhibition ‘People of the Garan’ – a solo exhibition featuring a new body of work by artist Haseebah Ali, showcasing historic Kashmiri objects from the @miahfoundation collection.
Join us for an insightful workshop celebrating the rich heritage of Kashmiri Numda, a traditional technique used to create felt rugs that have been an essential part of domestic life in Azad Kashmir for centuries. These rugs provide warm, colourful, and affordable floor coverings and can also serve as mattresses during the colder months, embodying both practicality and artistry.
Participants will have the opportunity to create a decorative hanging coaster using felt shapes inspired by paisley, leaves, and flowers, and will be introduced to the traditional Kashmiri chain stitch to incorporate into their work, reflecting the intricate embroidery of Numda rugs.
The workshop is suitable for adults and children (13+).
All materials will be provided, and no prior experience is necessary.
Tickets: FREE – limited to two tickets.
This workshop is being funded by @bhamcitycouncil exploring the traditional crafts of local communities through the Balsall Heath Cultural Action Area project and supports our work with @balsallheathsecondsaturday . To minimise waste of resources, please only book a ticket if you are sure that you will be able to attend. Additionally, please do not book multiple blocks of two tickets.
Link: https://miahfoundation.com/events/kashmiri-art-numda-craft-and-paisley-designs
Image reference: Kashmir Digital Museum
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Plant Poetry workshop
Join Kohinoor and Arron this Saturday for a multi-sensory creative workshop exploring the edible herbs that live in our Peace Garden 🌿🌼 Listen to plant poetry and write your own whilst touching, tasting, smelling and seeing the herbs 🖐️👂👃👄👁️
Saturday 12th July, 12 – 1pm
Workshop is aimed at ages 6 – 11 years, but all are welcome.
Free
Throughout the day you’ll also be invited to spend time in the Peace Garden, listen to some audio recordings of Kohinoor reading nature-themed poetry, and enjoy the butterflies 🦋
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Seemaworld : SCULPTING RADICAL KINDNESS
12:30–14:30 ➡️ SCULPTING RADICAL KINDNESS
saturday is looming, people! ^^so here’s a lil itinerary to map out this workshop^^
what does kindness look + feel like when it’s shaped by playful limits? come find out, play and connect.
we’ll be: sculpting relics for speculative futures 🌍 BUT with a limited resource chosen randomly by you:: clay, found objects, collage, writing, 3d animation,maybe more
✨no skills needed
✨all materials provided
✨drop-in or stay for the duration
✨guided workshop / reflection circle begins 12:45
✨pay what you feel: £5 / £7 / £9 (book via www.seemaworld.com or pay on the day)full programme in instagram bio https://www.instagram.com/seemaworld_, wheelchair access, everyone welcome!
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International Womens Day – arts activities with Sevonah Golabi
Join artist Sevonah Golabi to celebrate International Women’s Day with arts activities.
Make a dedication heart to a woman who has inspired you, or an important woman in your life and attach it to the washing line.
In the spirit of the suffragettes, make your own rosette about something you feel passionate about or want to change in the world and wear it proudly!
11.30-2.30, free drop in.
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Adfree Cities presents Digital Dystopia
“We have yet to invent the politics and new forms of collaborative action—this century’s equivalent of the social movements of the late nineteenth and twentieth centuries that aimed to tether raw capitalism to society—that effectively assert the people’s right to a human future. And while the work of these inventions awaits us, this mobilization and the resistance it engenders will define a key battleground upon which the fight for a human future unfolds.”
Shoshana Zuboff, The Age of Surveillance Capitalism“[Fossil fuel companies] have been aided and abetted by advertising and PR companies – Mad Men fuelling the madness.”
UN Secretary General, Antonio Guterres, June 2024Birmingham event: When fossil capitalism met surveillance advertising
Saturday 8th March 2025, public talk at 4pm
(Exhibition open all day from 10am – 6pm)As wildfires ravaged Los Angeles this January 2025, fossil fuel companies took out ads across California to stop new climate legislation at the state level. In Britain fossil fuel giants BP and Shell have bought ad spaces on public transport networks to focus attention on its renewable projects whilst slashing its green investments plans and ramping up oil and gas investments.
All around us, advertisers are building new digital advertising screens in our streets with creeping surveillance technologies.
Join us for the Birmingham launch of Digital Dystopia – a mock advertising unit made from recycled electronic waste – re-engineered to reveal the tactics of misdirection used by major polluters to maintain their social licence to operate. We’ll discuss how we build sustainable futures beyond consumerism to meet our needs; and how to create urban spaces that centre community connection, solidarity, public art and access to nature.
With Robbie Gillett and Chloe Naldrett from Adfree Cities & Badvertising.
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Family woodcarving with Pathcarvers
11am until 1pm, Lower gallery or courtyard, Courtyard Entrance, The Old Print Works
Monthly family carving club, all ages welcome, learn how to use a sharp knife to make beautiful things from wood
Donation/ pay what you feel – drop in – get there early – limited spaces
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The Upholstery Group
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
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Story time club – Al-Sufi
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. -
Collage gift box workshop
11am – 1pm
Come and make a sturdy beautiful collage gift box. All welcome. No prior experience required.
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Petals, Wings & Charms – Creative Crafts for Mexican Day of the Dead
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
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Painting the Damascus Rose on Ceramics
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
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Craft a Masterpiece with Serefina’s Iron on Vinyl Workshop
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
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Family woodcarving with Pathcarvers
11am until 1pm, Lower gallery or courtyard, Courtyard Entrance, The Old Print Works
Monthly family carving club, all ages welcome, learn how to use a sharp knife to make beautiful things from wood
Donation/ pay what you feel – drop in – get there early – limited spaces
-
Family woodcarving with Pathcarvers
11am until 1pm, Lower gallery or courtyard, Courtyard Entrance, The Old Print Works
Monthly family carving club, all ages welcome, learn how to use a sharp knife to make beautiful things from wood
Donation/ pay what you feel – drop in – get there early – limited spaces
-
Craft a Masterpiece with Serefina’s Iron on Vinyl Workshop
Craft a Masterpiece with Serefina’s Iron on Vinyl Workshop
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. Upstairs at The Old Print Works 1 pm onwards. 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 -
Acting for Theatre – Alternative Nativity First Rehearsal
The first rehearsal for The Old Print Works ‘Alternative Nativity Play’. If anyone would like to take part in any creative role, please message info@secondsaturday.org.uk
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The Upholstery Group at The Old Print Works
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
-
Craft a Masterpiece with Serefina’s Iron on Vinyl Workshop
Craft a Masterpiece with Serefina’s Iron on Vinyl Workshop
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. Upstairs at The Old Print Works 1 pm onwards. 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 -
Ebru / Ottoman Marble Art Workshop
Come join the MIAH Foundation for a Ebru / Ottoman Marble Art Workshop, with a guided tutorial (materials will be provided).
12-2pm | Saturday 14th September 2024 | MIAH Gallery, Moseley Community Hub | 496 Moseley Road Balsall Heath B12 9AH.
Join us for a creative painting workshop where we will explore the Ottoman and Persian art of Ebru marble painting. This workshop is being delivered 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.
Who is this course for? All levels of ability are welcome. Suitable for adults and children aged 9+ years. All materials are provided.
To secure your place, please book in advance using ‘register’. We will allow a small number of walk-up bookings on the day, subject to availability.
