Must-see exhibitions in the Midlands
Don't want to miss the very best exhibitions open now in the Midlands? From a deep dive into the art of storytelling to the sacred act of drawing river maps, 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
Shahana Rajani: Lines That World a River لکیروں سے دریا تھامنا
From the drawing of river-maps to the painting of sea murals, contemporary artist Shahana Rajani explores how these creative practices allow coastal communities across the Indus Delta in Pakistan. This act of drawing is a ritual to honour and protect these eco-systems that are disappearing in the face of climate catastrophe and destructive infrastructure.
Transitions: Anthony Donnelly
Large portraits of seven Nottingham locals go on display at Nottingham Castle. Artist Anthony Donnelly selected and interviewed a group of people who have experienced migration, either directly or through their families, to celebrate their stories and achievements in the wake of such major life changes. From sporting achievements to creative accomplishments, these stories reflect our shared human experience, something that everyone can relate to.
Stories That Made Us - Roots, Resilience, Representation
Journey through the lived experiences of a South Asian family in Coventry in this immersive exhibition, telling their story from 1968 to 2010. Rooms from their house will be staged and decorated with personal items – such as photographs, posters, magazines and books. Hear their music, watch their television, and listen to their stories to learn about the family's connections with migration, activism, identity and culture.
Becoming Shakespeare
Immerse yourself in fascinating and emotional stories about William Shakespeare's life that begun in, and was shaped by, Stratford-upon-Avon. Across five curated spaces, you'll journey through his life, work and words that have had a lasting influence on how we understand the human condition to this day.
Commodities: Sculpture and Ceramics by Renee So
Dive into Chinese history and identity with Renee So, a contemporary arts who makes playful ceramics and sculptural works that explore how our understanding of imperialist histories and non-Western cultures have been distorted.