Summer at Ikon

From artist residencies and hands-on workshops to live performance and family activities, discover what’s happening at Ikon this summer.

Throughout August, the Ceramics Studio becomes a hub of activity as artists, young creatives and visitors come together as part Ikon’s Break the Mould exhibition.

This is a great opportunity to see ideas developing in real time and talk to the ceramicists and artists about their practice.

Highlights include:

• Jack Ky Tan in the Ceramics Studio – watch the artist at work and learn more about his work.
• Ikon Youth Programme x Modern Clay in the Ceramics Studio – meet artists Laurie Ramsell, Joanne Masding and members of Ikon Youth Programme. IYP members also host clay activities for visitors.
• Diasporic Exchanges: India – Birmingham – drop in and meet artist-in-residence Roo Dhissou and artist Shalini Dam for a day of creative activity and conversation.

A series of free workshops and drop-in activities for visitors of all ages to experiment. Make and respond to the themes explored in the exhibitions, turning your summer into a creative project.

Take part in:

• Family Saturday with artist Nastaran Tavakoli – for a hands-on workshop inspired by the traditional sgraffito technique.
• Family Play With Clay Day – contribute your own creation to a temporary exhibition by trying out various techniques used in clay making.
• Curious Minds: Exploring Art and Science – take creative ideas home with you. Discover new ways of looking at art and science at the upcoming engaging book launch.

This summer’s programme extends beyond exhibitions, bringing together visual art, music, movement and storytelling in unexpected ways.

Don’t miss:

• A Walk in the Park – a new ballet performance choreographed by Birmingham Royal Ballet artist Olivia Chang-Clarke.
• Upright Piano Performnace – a live performance activating Angela de la Cruz’s artwork with musicians from Birmingham Contemporary Music Group.
• A Small Bit of Earth – a celebratory performance marking the close of Break the Mould.

Discover more about Break the Mould and gain a deeper insight through our Curator Tour with Will Kew.

Listen to our exhibition audio guides on Bloomberg Connects or ask one of our friendly Gallery Assistants.

Head to our Resource Room to watch a film with artist Angela de la Cruz and Carolina Grau, (Guest Curator) as they give insights into Angela’s work.

Spotlight Tours on every Thursday & Sunday.

If you’re short on time, our Spotlight Tours offer an easy way to experience the exhibition during a lunch break or afternoon stroll, all in 15-minutes.

Ikon Shop 

Whether you’re planning creative activities during the school holidays, refreshing your home for summer hosting, or searching for your next great read, Ikon Shop has something to inspire.

Enjoy a drink at Medicine Bakery
Ikon’s on-site café, the perfect place to relax before or after exploring the exhibitions.

Take the Singing Lift
Don’t miss Martin Creed’s Work No. 409 – the gallery’s famous Singing Lift, where a choral composition transforms a simple journey between floors into an artwork of its own.

Pick Up an Art Explorer
Enjoy creative prompts, activities and trails designed to help families and visitors discover the exhibitions together. Complete the trail and get your Ikon Art Explorer badge!