Open Call: Public Exhibitions & Projects

About the Open Call

The Birmingham School of Art Gallery (Birmingham City University) announces an open call for public exhibitions and projects for its on-site gallery during the 2025–26 academic year. Proposals are invited from artists, curators, researchers, and collectives for three-week exhibition slots in the historic School of Art building (est. 1843). Special interest is given to proposals that engage with the art school context, involve BCU graduates, utilize the BCU Arts, Design and Media Archive, or originate from within the University community. The gallery provides approx. 8x18m space, adjustable lighting, window blinds, and technical support. One slot is dedicated to an internal proposal. Gallery specs: Approx 8x18m, adjustable lighting rig, window blinds.

What is Offered

Selected exhibitions will occupy the gallery for approximately three weeks. The offer includes a £700 artist/professional fee, a £350 production fee, some technical install support, technical equipment (to be negotiated), documentation images, security at front desk, invigilation, promotional/printing support, opening event hospitality, and exhibitions insurance. Available slots: 22/9 – 17/10/2025, 03/11 – 21/11/2025, 12/01 – 30/01/2026.

Requirements

Proposals are invited from artists, curators, researchers, and collectives. Applications are especially welcomed from individuals and groups from global majority backgrounds. Proposals should address one or more of the following: engage with the gallery’s context within a working art school and seek to engage students (including BA Fine Art, BA Art and Design, and Postgraduate programmes); include work by School of Art or BCU graduates; engage with BCU’s Arts, Design and Media Archive (with a recommendation to visit the archive in person); or originate from within the University community (artists, curators, or researchers at BCU). At least one slot will be dedicated to an internal proposal.

How to Apply

Please send a PDF that contains a written proposal, images of past work/indicative work, and a CV to BSOAgallery@bcu.ac.uk. Applicants should also indicate preferences for available date slots.