Balsall Heath Second Saturday

The Second Saturday of the Month

Tag: Daytime November 2025

  • Community Conversation – Who Killed Oswald Grey?

    Community Conversation – Who Killed Oswald Grey?

    An interactive discussion exploring racial injustice, the British legal system and local history through the real-life story of Oswald Grey

    Join us at The GAP for an interactive Community Conversation with writer Jon Berry exploring forgotten local history, capital punishment and racial injustices within the British legal system through the real-life story of Oswald Augustus Grey.

    Oswald came to England from Jamaica aged 18 in 1960, and lived on Cannon Hill Road in Balsall Heath. Two years later he became the last man to be hanged in Birmingham and the last Black man to be executed in Britain. This is a tale of hasty injustice and deep-seated prejudice that is as relevant today as it was 60 years ago.

    • Through audio, images and storytelling, local writer Jon Berry will take us on a journey through Oswald’s life and untimely death, as carefully researched for his latest book Who Killed Oswald Grey? Race, the law, and the last Black man hanged in Britain
    • Interactive elements will include reviewing evidence sheets to make your case, reading excerpts from a theatre script that dramatises Oswald’s trial, and community conversations around the importance of this story today
    • These presentations, discussions and activities will take place between 4 – 6pm, with open unstructured space to chat and connect between 6 – 7pm.
    • All welcome. Whilst this is a heavy topic, we intend to create this event as a warm and gentle space for reflection that centres on building connections, solidarity and knowledge within the community
    • Light refreshments will be provided by Sam’s Vegan Delights
  • Wonderfish Art Studio: Reimagining Our City with Collage

    Wonderfish Art Studio: Reimagining Our City with Collage


    Join Wonderfish Art Studio at Balsall Heath Second Saturday for a hands-on creative collage workshop! Perfect for ages 4–10 and their grown-ups.

    In a safe creative space, we’ll be exploring what we feel about Birmingham and Balsall Heath with the art of collage, using different materials. Together, we are making collaborative artworks that celebrate our beautiful city and connect community and culture.

    Saturday 8 November 11am-1pm

    Drop-in, free, no booking required!

  • Self-Portrait with PRISM Photography Network

    Self-Portrait with PRISM Photography Network

    Discover the power of self-expression at our unique Self-Portrait Studio Event at The Old Print works, in the heart of Balsall Heath. This one-of-a-kind experience invites you to step into a professional studio space where you become the photographer and the subject. Capture your own portrait in a safe, creative environment using professional lighting and backdrops, guided by friendly experts who will help you feel confident and inspired. Whether you’re a seasoned photographer or a first-timer, this is your chance to create striking images that reveal your personality and story.

    Alongside taking your portrait, you’ll have the exciting opportunity to share your wildest thoughts and feelings on a communal mood board. This collaborative space encourages honesty, imagination, and connection—express your dreams, challenges, or inspirations through words, drawings, or images. Your contributions will help capture the vibrant spirit and diversity of Balsall Heath, giving voice to stories often unheard.

    By participating, you will also play a vital role in an ongoing documentary project dedicated to exploring life in Balsall Heath. Your portrait and shared insights could be featured in exhibitions, publications, or digital media, helping to construct a rich tapestry of this community’s identity. Join us for a day of creativity, reflection, and community building—where your story matters and your image can inspire change.

    The experience is offered by the PRISM Photography Network and it Is part of the Balsall Heath Observation project.

  • Her VESSEL : womxn’s journeys and their baggage

  • Painting an Iranian Floral Motif

    Painting an Iranian Floral Motif

    Join us to learn about the Shah Abbasi motif and create your own painting to take home. This workshop is being delivered as part of the ‘Balsall Heath Second Saturdays’ programme.

    Named after Shah Abbas I, the Shah Abbasi motif is a highly stylised representation of flowers and is prominently featured in carpet designs, metalwork, and illuminated manuscripts. The geometric and symmetrical floral designs typically feature a central palmette surrounded by smaller floral and leaf patterns. More than just a decorative element, the motif symbolises the connection between nature and the divine and embodies the cultural exchange of ideas between East and West.

    In this workshop, you will explore the history and symbolism of the Shah Abbasi motif and create your own painting using traditional Persian illumination techniques.

    Suitable for adults and children aged 9+ years. All materials are provided.

    📅 Dates: Saturday 8th November 2025
    ⏰ Time: 2:00pm – 4:00pm
    📍 Place: MIAH Islamic Arts & Heritage Gallery | 496 Moseley Road | Balsall Heath, Birmingham | B12 9AH

    Tickets:
    Standard Course Fee: £12.50 including Eventbrite fees.
    Subsidised Fee: £10.00

    Ticket link

    Image reference: 16th-Century Silk Kashan Carpet, Made in Iran, The Met Museum, Object Number: 58.46.
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