Must-see exhibitions in the Midlands
Don't want to miss the very best exhibitions open now in the Midlands? From a world-leading Japanese photographer to a celebration of flowers, these are the must-see shows of the moment.
Famous for being a cradle of industry, the Midlands is dotted with the landmarks of this history – from Middleport Pottery, now an award-winning visitor destination, to a rich cluster of sites in Telford, including Coalport China Museum, Coalbrookdale Museum of Iron and the Tar Tunnel.
A cultural day of exploration in the Midlands might also include the sculpture park at Compton Verney, stellar contemporary art spaces such as Nottingham Contemporary and Ikon Gallery in Birmingham, or the internationally important collection at Weston Park – but for knockout temporary exhibitions in the region, you'll want to take a look at the evolving selection below.
So if you're planning a day out in major cities including Birmingham, Coventry, Nottingham and Wolverhampton, or you're looking to discover a hidden gem, check out our guide to the biggest exhibitions in the East and West Midlands open now.
Don't forget to pack your National Art Pass to get great benefits at every venue, and check out our full listings for more upcoming exhibitions.
Discover some of the best exhibitions in the East Midlands and West Midlands with an Art Pass
Mao Ishikawa
Glimpse a raw and intimate portrait of Okinawa's past and present through Mao Ishikawa's candid photographs, revealing life in a place shaped by Japanese sovereignty and American military occupation. Don't miss this opportunity to experience the first UK institutional exhibition of Ishikawa's powerful images.
The Gorgeous Nothings: Flowers at Chatsworth
Celebrate the blooming of spring in this exhibition inspired by Chatsworth's estate, and the people who have transformed it into a botanical treasure trove over the last 600 years. Both historical and contemporary works of art from the Devonshire Collections and on loan from major museums reveal the power and endurance of nature.