Learn to make sustainable textile jewellery with Mahawa from award-winning Mansading Textile. Inspired by a traditional African wrapping technique. Preserving traditional hand textile skills and using up waste fabrics and yarn, you will create a beautiful necklace or bracelet to wear or gift.
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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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Kids Art Workshop with Blue Hands
Join us for a special event and free kids art exhibition and workshop. Please bring spare clothes as this workshop may include getting messy and creative. No age limit please can all children be accompanied by an adult. 🎨 🖌️
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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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More Than Sight exhibition
GAP Gallery 10am-4pm
More Than Sight
An interactive exhibition by Isra Kaur exploring alternative ways of thinking about art for both sighted and visually impaired audiencesWORKSHOP
Try your hand at our sensory Clay Challenges
- Sculpting without Seeing
Liberate yourself from the judgemental sense of sight and enjoy the freedom of creating only with your sense of TOUCH. - Art That Feels Good
Shape, squeeze or stroke a piece of clay into piece to be included in our More Than Sight exhibition for people with visual impairment. What it looks like has no relevance—it’s all about how it FEELS.
Saturday 8th February, 12-1pm, 2-3pm.
Drop-in / All welcome
Taking place as part of @balsallheathsecondsaturday
- Sculpting without Seeing
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Peace Garden Open Day – Myrtle Cottage
Peace Garden Open Day 🌄🌺
Sat 8th February 11.30am – 3.30pmAll 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 -
Islamic Bookbinding Workshop
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):
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John Row, Storyteller
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 Original Art Club
The Original Art Club at The Old Print Works and Balsall Heath Second Saturdays.
The Original Art Club is a safe creative space for children to explore, create and develop their artistic skills. This is project-based learning tailored to each individual and their ability. The idea is progress not perfection and with an ‘I can do’ attitude here at the club we want all our budding artists to feel confident and encouraged in their creative journey. We teach several 2D and 3D techniques within our projects using a wide range of materials from pencil, acrylic paint and watercolours, to clay and paper mache. Our mixed age and mixed ability classes is a unique way in building self-confidence, independence and social bonding. Those children who have been with us longer will have gained more flexibility in steering their own projects and outcomes. We use mediums such as acrylics, watercolours, oil/soft pastels, inks, fine liners and 3D work with papier mache, clay and paper sculpture. At the club we value art and believe it is a significant component for the holistic education of children.
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Beginner’s Bookbinding Workshop
In this beginner’s bookbinding workshop, you will learn a saddle stitch binding method and create a one of a kind pocket journal to take home.
All tools are provided, along with a wide selection of papers, card stock, magazines, old books, maps and more. You will get to pick the pages for your notebook, learn how to bind them together and then decorate the cover in your own style. Feel free to bring with you: old envelopes, pages from unused notebooks or sketchbooks, sheet music, maps, posters, old books, cards, paper bags, wrapping paper. Anything goes!
Suitable for older children accompanied by an adult (we will be using sharp tools – an awl, needle, scissors and craft knife)
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CDT for under 11’s
11am onwards – drop in, The Old Print Works upper gallery
Wood working skills that can set you up for life
pricing available in workshop
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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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Balsall Heath Repair Cafe
The Old Print Works
Balsall Heath Repair Cafe is back again at Balsall Heath Second Saturday. Repairers include textiles, electrics, computers, general repairs. Check balsallheathrepaircafe.org for repairers closer to the day – 12.30pm-4pm/
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Birmingham Resistance Library
Browse, Borrow and Return is this Saturday!
In addition to our regular Birmingham Resistance Library session, We’re teaming up with Print and Matter @printandmatter this Saturday 11th October @balsallheathsecondsaturday to celebrate the launch of their exhibition and publication launch, Printciples!
All events will be at The Old Print Works (Drawing Room @oldprintworksbrum ) except the exhibition, which is next door at MIAH Gallery @miahfoundation.
1-4pm
- Browse Borrow and Return (browse the collection, borrow a book and remember to return your library books!)
- Print and Matter Stall (publication launch and prints for sale)
- Community DVD library with @radicalexhibtion
1-3pm
- Risograph Induction workshop with Print and Matter, make a two-color print and take home 5 copies, £10, link in @birminghamresistancelibrary bio to book.
4-7pm
- Principles exhibition launch next door at MIAH Gallery (Artist presentations 4.30-5.30pm)
Reminder: you can browse the collection in advance, link in bio ✨
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Design for Future Living project drop-in
11am onwards, The Old Print Works
A group of third year Design For Future Living students from Birmingham City University are conducting a project about Balsall Heath and how the area can be improved and regenerated. Come along to their drop-in session to share your views, or discuss areas for improvement as well as improvements that have already been made over the last few years. They are looking to turn this into recommendations to share with the Council and other stakeholders.
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Portraits with PRISM Photography
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
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SEWING SOLIDARITY EXHIBITION
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
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Crafts with Itzatna Arts
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
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Islamic Bookbinding Workshop
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!
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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. -
Do Make Say Ink x Kings Heath Action for Refugees
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.
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Activities at The GAP
Sensory Craft Workshop with Wool and Clay – The MIX Cafe 12-2pm, all welcome, Drop in
Sewing Solidaity Exhibition – The GAP Gallery, All day
Young Makers Winter Fair – The GAP Cafe and The MIX Cafe, 11-4
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Activities at The MIAH Foundation
Story-Time: Fatima al-Fihri
Time: 10:30 AM to 11:30 AM
Cost: Tickets are £8 for one adult and one child, with entry to the exhibition included
Booking Info: Storytime Club | MIAH FoundationBotanical Drawings
Time: 12 – 3pm
Cost: £18 (+ ticket fees)
Booking Info: Botanical Drawings and Painting Workshop | MIAH FoundationExhibition
Time: Free drop-in from 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM
Cost: Free
Booking Info: Exhibition: From Samarkand to Salerno: Roads of Enlightenment | MIAH Foundation -
The Old Print Works Festive Market
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
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Darkroom workshop with Darkroom Birmingham
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/
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Botanical Drawings and Paintings
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.
