BCU Tuesdays

Ikon is pleased to announce that BCU Tuesdays has been extended until September 2026. The partnership with Birmingham City University (BCU) enables the gallery to open on Tuesdays when visitors can enjoy an additional day of free entry to Ikon’s exhibitions.

Since its launch in October 2024, BCU Tuesdays at Ikon Gallery has demonstrated what can be achieved in partnership between a cultural organisation and academic institution. Together, we have enhanced our civic role through outreach with Birmingham communities, professionally developing artistic talent, engaging children and young people in creative education and showcasing the innovation that underpins the creative industries. With BCU’s generous support, Ikon has engaged over 20,000 audience members.

BCU Explore Days

On BCU Tuesdays, school and college students are welcomed to Ikon Gallery for interactive workshops, delivered in collaboration with the BCU Schools Outreach Team, academics and student ambassadors. Sessions introduce Key Stage 4 and 5 learners to the breadth of creative study opportunities at BCU, from Fine Art to Fashion, Photography and Arts Education.

From October 2024, Ikon hosted 12 BCU Explore Days led by BCU Art Design and Media staff. Over 200 students from schools and colleges – including Solihull Sixth Form College, Sandwell College, Aldersley High School, Swanshurst School, and Shireland Collegiate – were introduced to careers in the creative industries.

Contact schoolsandcolleges@bcu.ac.uk for more information and to enquire about booking your school for BCU Explore Days.