Events

The RBSA Summer Show is the Society’s biggest open call of the year and attracts submissions from artists based all around the globe. Displayed over all three floors of the Gallery, this exhibition does not limit artists to a theme or technique, the result being a highly diverse show with a multitude of approaches represented.

As Birmingham’s equivalent to the Royal Academy Summer Show, this exhibition provides an excellent opportunity for artists to showcase their work in the city’s foremost contemporary art gallery. First time exhibitors can expect to find their work amongst that of experienced RBSA Members and Associates, and, for many, the RBSA Summer Show can form the start of their own journey to Membership.

Selection for the exhibition is by an experienced panel of RBSA Members and Associates.

The following prizes will be awarded:

• First Prize: £600
• Second Prize: £300
• Up to six highly commended certificates will also be awarded.
• All prizes have been kindly donated by Clive Beardsmore, Friend and long time supporter of the RBSA.

Preview Evening: Thursday 18 June 6.00pm – 8.00pm

Exhibition closes: Saturday 1 August 5.00pm

Image: Annette Hughes, Orange In Blue

Opening Hours: Tuesday – Saturday 10.30am – 5.00pm

🍻 THE BIG QUIZ – EVERY MONDAY

Monday nights at The Actress & Bishop are not for the weak.

Our Big Quiz is a fast-paced, phone-based, brain-melting pub quiz where there are no pens, no paper, and absolutely no cheating (we’re watching you 👀). Just you, your mates and your smartphones battling it out for glory, prizes and bragging rights.

With a mix of general knowledge, pop culture, music and “how did I know that?!” moments, it’s the perfect way to start the week without wanting to cry into your pint.

Grab a drink, grab a team, and let the speed quiz chaos begin.

Wax carving workshop
25th June | 10 am – 13:00 pm | £45

Heritage Crafts at the Hive is a new year long programme, featuring a new heritage craft each month. This series of workshops and courses is celebrating Birmingham’s award of World Craft City status by the World Crafts Council in 2025. Each craft will be showcased in a display in the Hive’s Heritage Lounge, skilled craft practitioners will lead craft sessions, and an exhibition in the Gallery in May 2027 will showcase Birmingham based craftspeople.

Wax Carving Workshop with Marcus Osbourne (My Bespoke Jewellery)

This course is aimed at those starting their jewellery-making journey or for traditional bench jewellers who are looking to expand their jewellery-making potential, broaden their knowledge and increase their skill range. Suitable for those aged 14+.

This half day workshop will introduce you to the art of hand-carving wax models for jewellery. You will practice carving techniques as you design and carve your a ring. You will learn about the basic tools required to design, carve/sculpt and produce finished wax models; and you will discover how they are turned into jewellery through lost-wax casting.

All tools and materials are provided. The workshop will take place in the Hive’s Makers’ Studio, in a friendly and supportive learning environment. There is also an opportunity to have your ring cast in hallmarked Sterling Silver (or metal of your choosing) after the course, for an additional cost. More details will given during the course.

The Tutor

Marcus Osbourne transforms ideas into wearable pieces of art. He is the founder of My Bespoke Jewellery and is a self-taught maker specialising in unique hand-carved wax models. With 28 years in casting and manufacturing, Marcus’s mission is to create jewellery that embodies individuality and craftsmanship, as well as passing on this wealth of knowledge by providing carving classes at his studio in the Jewellery Quarter.

Location
The Hive, 43-42 Vittoria Street, Birmingham, B1 3PE

Birmingham in the 19th-century was hailed as the ‘workshop of the world’. The Jewellery Quarter was its busy hub, producing jewellery, silver and tableware.

About 40% of British jewellery is still made there. Behind a frontage of terraced houses, J.W.Evans Silver Factory is among its most complete surviving historic factories. Crammed with tools and equipment, it’s preserved as if the workers might return at any minute.

Entry to J.W Evans is through guided tours only and advance booking is essential. Please arrive at the time on your booking as tours start promptly.

Note there are two tours on the day below starting at 11.00am and 13.30pm

We advise that unfortunately, the tour is not suitable for those with poor mobility, due to the uneven floors, narrow walkways, and steep stairs across the building. Minimum age for the tours is 16 years old.

You can book online until 9am on the day of your visit. Tickets are free for members – just remember to bring your English Heritage membership card. You can join as a member online or during your visit.

We can’t wait to see you at J. W. Evans Silver Factory soon.

Come join us for a night of headbanging and moshing at Actress & Bishop! Get ready to rock out to some epic tunes and enjoy the electric atmosphere. Whether you’re a die-hard metal fan or just looking for a good time, this event is perfect for anyone who loves heavy music.

Headliners ‘Dreamboat Emperor’, hailing from the heart of Birmingham, are a progressive instrumental alt rock band driven by a passion for vast, atmospheric soundscapes with intricate guitar work, dynamic rhythms and an evolving blend of prog, alternative and post-rock influences.

This band aims to take the listener to another dimension. Crafting atmospheres, not just through your headphones but also in their live performances. It’s the band’s goal to deliver and inspire through the world of progressive music.

Supporting them are Rock Band ‘PASSIVE FIX’’. A three-piece rock band from Birmingham, UK, blending fierce determination with consistent releases and energetic, unforgettable live shows. Carving a path into the rock mainstream with their unique twist on the genre, they fuse flowing vocal lines, aggressive guitars, unrelenting grooves, and their signature saxophone melodies — a bold combination that sets them apart from the crowd.

Grab your friends, grab a drink, and let’s make some unforgettable memories together. See you there!

Birmingham’s world-famous Jewellery Quarter has been Britain’s main seat of jewellery and silver manufacture for at least the last 150 years.

It has been described as a ‘National treasure, a place of unique character and a particular combination of structures associated with jewellery and metal working that doesn’t seem to exist anywhere else in the world.’

Join us on a lively guided walk looking at the people, places and themes that have helped to shape this singular working district.

Please Note: This guided walk begins outside St Paul’s Church in St Pauls Square B3 1QZ and ends at the Museum of the Jewellery quarter.

Please arrive in good time with your pre-booked ticket as the walk will begin promptly at 2pm.

Pre-booking required.

Calligraphy has become a popular art form and many are now exploring this elegant skill. Attending calligraphy classes can help you master the techniques and unleash your creativity.

If you’re interested in learning a new artistic skill, calligraphy classes might be just what you need to explore the beauty of scripted writing.

Calligraphy has become a popular hobby for many, allowing individuals to express creativity through elegant lettering. For those keen to dive deeper, calligraphy classes offer an excellent way to refine skills and learn new techniques. Indeed, enrolling in calligraphy classes can significantly enhance your abilities.

Learning Calligraphy
“Quirky” Roman
Roman letter with a modern twist for those interested in producing their own card, invitations etc. You will use Finalisers, Pencils, gel pens etc. as well and being introduced using a pointed dip pen.

Wikipedia
Held at the Pen Museum, the classes are designed for both beginners and more experienced calligraphers. Learn the key elements of calligraphy and take information away to continue developing your style at home. Participate in calligraphy classes to enhance your art. Some materials will be provided, and calligraphy products can be purchased from the Museum shop.

12 Spaces are available for each session:

• Session 1: 12:00pm – 1:30pm
• Session 2: 2:00pm – 3:30pm
• £12.75 per session.
• No requirement to book both sessions.
• Museum admission is not included.
• Course suitable for adults only, especially those interested in perfecting their calligraphy skills through these comprehensive classes.

Freeing ourselves from the shackles of cringe culture one workshop at a time through positive and mindful wellbeing activities, strengthening our community values with the space to be creative.

Kicking off every event with a craft workshop followed by live performances from local creatives and a short interview with a promising brand/small business. Let’s laugh together, learn together and make together a better place to live.

Workshops run by a qualified artist, suitable for friends, couples, bachelor parties and crafty hands

Art club Perfect for hobbiests, music lovers and anyone fighting boredom
*All Art Club attendees have access to art supplies and materials to start new projects or finish incomplete ones during the event*

What you will get: All the equipment provided to complete the workshop

• Introduction and Workshop Demonstration
• Assistance on hand
• A glass bottle to turn into a functional vase, centre piece or candle holder
• Assortment of paint, pens, brushes, tissue and paper to create your pieces
• Paper bag to put your creations in

Plus the company of some amazing local creatives

NOTE: Upstairs venue, stairs only access

*Refunds issued if event is cancelled*

Please be aware that this event will be filmed and photographed for promotional purposes. By attending, you consent to your voice and likeness being recorded and used for these purposes. Wristbands available for anyone who does not wish to have their faces featured in the promotions

🌿 Plant Bingo is coming to Actress & Bishop 🌿

Birmingham… are you ready? 👀

Plant Bingo UK is bringing the experience to Birmingham for the first time. Join us for an unforgettable afternoon of plants, prizes, drinks, and good vibes 🌱🍹
This isn’t your average bingo night…
Expect:
🎟 Fully hosted bingo games
🌿 REAL houseplants to be won
🍹 Drinks and social vibes
🎉 A fun, welcoming atmosphere
🪴 Plant lovers, collectors, beginners & curious first-timers all welcome
Every ticket includes:
🌱 A free plant
🎟 Bingo cards
🖊 Dabber
🔢 Bingo counters
🎤 Full Plant Bingo experience
Previous prizes have included rare and collectable plants like:
🌌 Monstera Thai Constellation
👸 Philodendron Pink Princess
🍋Maranta Lemon Lime
🤴 Epipremnum Pinnatum Marble King
🌱 Monstera adansonii Mint
❄️Monstera Frozen Freckles
…and many more 👀
⚠️ IMPORTANT INFO
• Limited capacity — tickets expected to go quickly
• Seating is first come, first served
• Over 18s only
• Tickets are non-refundable
• Photos/videos may be taken during the event for social media (guests can opt out of photos if preferred)
🌿 Come for the bingo… leave with plants, laughs, and maybe a new plant obsession.
🎟 Book early and don’t miss out.
Whether you’re coming with friends or flying solo, come and experience bingo like you’ve never played before 🌿🎉