Ikon presents Workshop of the World, an exhibition of children’s artwork made during a year-long partnership between the Creative Connections consortium of schools, Ikon’s Education team and a group of local artist educators. Over 800 children from 16 regional primary schools are represented.  

During the programme, creative sessions focused on heritage craft skills including printmaking, textiles, metalwork and ceramics and encouraged students to explore Birmingham’s industrial history and strong links with the Arts and Crafts movement.

Throughout the 2024/5 academic year, schoolchildren visited Ikon Gallery to immerse themselves in the exhibitions before completing three days of creative workshops in the classroom with a local artist. This showcase includes large-scale collaborative works made by students in their class or whole year groups. After the exhibition each piece will return to the schools to be installed as a permanent artwork.  

With thanks to:
Artist educators: Ayesha Bibi, Polly Brant, Gugan Gill, Annie Higgins, Sarah Hamilton-Baker, Zahrah Hutton, Ruby Lewis, Beccy Roberts.

Students from: Audley Primary School, Beechwood CE Primary School, Brownmead Primary Academy, Elms Farm Primary School, Hillstone Primary School, Jervoise School, Paganel Primary School, Princethorpe Junior School, Princethorpe Infant School, Sladefield Infant School, The Bromley Pensnett Primary School, The Oaks Primary School, The Oval School, Topcliffe Primary School and Wychall Primary School.

This project is generously supported by Creative Connections.

Schools Offer

Ikon Gallery welcomes school groups. We offer tours and workshops plus free online resources such as creative activity packs. More information available here.