Ikon and macLYON present works by over twenty artists from the British Council Collection and macLYON that explore the theme of friendship.

This exhibition takes place at macLYON (8 March – 7 July 2024) and Ikon Gallery (25 September – 23 February 2025).

Based on mutual trust and affection, friendships are among our most valued relationships. Friends share life experiences, broaden horizons and build collective futures – yet the nature of friendship is difficult to define. Taking place in the partner cities of Lyon and Birmingham, this exhibition also looks at diplomatic friendships, and how regional capitals and cultural institutions can create new ways of living and working together in a post-Brexit climate. It includes painting, drawing, photography, printmaking, film, sculpture and installation, with existing and new work by artists with longstanding connections to each city.

Artists: Kenneth Armitage, Sonia Boyce, Tereza Bušková, Pogus Caesar, Patrick Caulfield, Jimmie Durham, Tracey Emin, Marie-Anita Gaube, Lola Gonzàlez, Emma Hart, Lubaina Himid, Géraldine Kosiak, Delaine Le Bas, Markéta Luskacová, Rachel Maclean, Goshka Macuga, Madame Yevonde, Gordon Matta-Clark, Hetain Patel, Paula Rego, Luke Routledge, Francis Upritchard, Niek van de Steeg, Lily van der Stokker, Fabien Verschaere, Gillian Wearing, Bedwyr Williams, Rose Wylie and Lynette Yiadom-Boakye.

This exhibition is supported by the British Council. Presented as part of Spotlight on Culture UK/France 2024 – Together We Imagine.