Ikon’s activity packs (Key Stages 1 – 3) are designed for creative learning at school or home. Inspired by Ikon’s exhibitions by Carlo Crivelli.

By Dean Kelland, Ikon’s artist in residence at HMP Grendon. “What is a ‘good’ man? That’s still the question…”

Australian Aboriginal artist Yhonnie Scarce was born in Woomera, South Australia, and belongs to the Kokatha and Nukunu peoples. Back in Birmingham for a residency until late-May, Scarce working with glass, explores the political nature and aesthetic qualities of the material – in particular corresponding to the crystallisation of desert sand as a result of British nuclear tests on her homeland during 1956-63.

Inside Time, the national newspaper for prisoners and detainees, features a monthly column by Nick London (a pseudonym) giving insight into the therapy undertaken at HMP Grendon. The latest issue demonstrates how Dean Kelland’s artist residency supports therapeutic practice at the prison

From 14 June 2022, Birmingham’s city-centre sculpture of Queen Victoria in Victoria Square is reimagined by acclaimed Guyanese-British artist Hew Locke,  presented by Birmingham 2022 Festival.

Following the announcement that Jonathan Watkins is stepping down as Director of Ikon, the Board of Trustees and Arts Council England released the following statements:

Twenty-three years on, it is with strong mixed emotions that I announce my stepping down as the Director of Ikon in October. It is a job I’ve loved – more and more, in fact – but a still small voice is telling me that now is the right time to strike out in pursuit of new adventures.

Ikon’s activity packs (Key Stages 1 – 4) are designed for creative learning at school or home. Inspired by Ikon’s exhibitions by Betsy Bradley and James T. Hong.

Sale now on, enjoy 30% off in Ikon Shop.*

1937 – 2021

Choose Ikon for your Christmas shopping this year! Browse our books, prints, stationery, jewellery, homeware and gifts in person at the gallery or online.

Ikon is delighted to announce plans for 2022-23 including exhibitions, off-site projects and events.

By Rosie Abbey, Ikon Youth Programme Coordinator

This Autumn, Ikon partners with Migrant Voice and the School of Education, University of Birmingham on a project with artist Vanley Burke.

By Dean Kelland, Ikon’s artist in residence at HMP Grendon

Ikon’s activity packs are designed for creative learning at school or home. Inspired by Ikon’s exhibitions by Mit Jai Inn and Bill Woodrow and Richard Deacon.

Browse Ikon’s catalogues and limited editions, produced to accompany our Autumn exhibitions by Mit Jai Inn and Bill Woodrow and Richard Deacon.

By Rosie Abbey, Ikon Youth Programme Coordinator

Ikon Founder Artist 1933 – 2021Jesse Bruton was a founder of Ikon, first opening its doors to the public in April 1965, and a loyal supporter of the gallery to the end. His 2016 retrospective was one of Ikon’s most popular exhibitions, a reminder for old friends of his unique imagination and artistic talent, and a revelation for younger audiences.

Ikon presents the third annual Migrant Festival. A four day programme mixing visual art, music, film and performance, it celebrates the contribution made by refugees and migrants to Birmingham and the UK, whilst bearing witness to the hardships and sacrifices involved.