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The RBSA Portrait Prize, last held in 2024, is a celebration of portraiture, one of the oldest artistic genres in existence.

Throughout history, portraits has been employed as a way of immortalising a person or group, and preserving their appearance for future generations. No other type of painting can give such insights into social and cultural history, and portraits allow us the unique gift of being able to connect with individuals, both living and dead. Indeed, the importance and popularity of portraiture remain undiminished today.

More recently, portraits have used to express more abstract themes, including the emotions or the state of the inner-self, without necessarily focusing on physical likeness, and greats such as Van Gogh, Kahlo, Picasso, Bacon, and Rembrandt all documented emotional turbulence in powerful self-portraits.
The RBSA Portrait Prize is open to established and emerging artists working in any media, including photography and digital art, and entries came from both UK based and international artists.

This year’s exhibition will be selected by:

• Brian Bishop – Senior Lecturer in Fine Art and Course Director for BA (Hons) in Fine Art, Birmingham School of Art
• Anthony Connolly President RP – President, Royal Society of Portrait Painters
• Dr Hannah Higham – Head of Collections, Royal Academy of Arts

The following prizes will be awarded:

• First Prize: £1000
• Second Prize: £500
• Third Prize: £250

Up to six highly commended certificates will be awarded

Preview Evening: Tuesday 5 May 6.00pm – 8.00pm

Exhibition closes: Saturday 13 June 5.00pm

Image: Jamie Coan, Ponder

Opening Hours: Tuesday – Saturday 10.30am – 5.00pm

Andrew Kinmont ARBSA explores atmosphere, movement and the felt experience of nature.

Childhood walks through Africa’s wild landscapes shaped his sensitivity to light, space and rhythm.

He graduated from the University of Wales with a First-Class Honours in Fine Art in 2007, with further training at St Martins College and West Dean College. Exhibited widely, he won First Prize at the RBSA International Summer Exhibition in 2024. His work features in major collections, including Raffles Hotel in London and the Corinthian in Bucharest.

Now based near Chester, he draws inspiration from North Wales and Middle England, creating paintings that privilege sensation over description.

Exhibition closes: Saturday 13 June 5.00pm

Featured image: Andrew Kinmont ARBSA, Autumn Chorus 

Opening Hours: Tuesday – Saturday 10.30am – 5.00pm

Laura Adkins ARBSA is a Solihull-based ceramic sculptor who creates reliefs, sculptural assemblages and 3D forms using slab construction and individually sculpted tiles.

Her work draws on ancient and cross-cultural symbolism, British folklore, ancestry, and ideas of memory, ritual and the passage of time. She is especially interested in how objects can act as carriers of belief and narrative.

Research, travel, photography, drawing and writing all inform her practice, helping shape a visual language that moves between the abstract, the figurative and the illustrative.

She balances planning with improvisation, allowing each piece to evolve through the making process. Working mainly in crank clay, with oxides and gas firing, she creates tactile surfaces that suggest age, weathering and excavation.

Exhibition closes: Saturday 13 June 5.00pm

Featured image: Laura Adkins ARBSA, Wild Self Portrait

Opening Hours: Tuesday – Saturday 10.30am – 5.00pm

Andrew Tromans RBSA is a printmaker and artist maintaining studios in the West Midlands and Central France.

His sketchbooks inform his subject matter, which is rooted in an ongoing investigation through layering, mark making and the use of hand crafted and found imagery. The physicality of carving, etching or inking is central to his process, allowing each print to carry traces of its making.

Recently he has explored Japanese woodblock techniques and is incorporating these experiences into his work combining tradition and risk taking to achieve creative output. Much of his inspiration is sourced in the industrial West Midlands and Central rural France.

Exhibition closes: Saturday 13 June 5.00pm

Featured image: Andrew Tromans RBSA, Puffin

Opening Hours: Tuesday – Saturday 10.30am – 5.00pm

The Small Works Exhibition is a unique show from the Society’s Membership, intended as a starting point for those visitors wishing to embark upon building an art collection.

All of the work included in the exhibition is no larger than 45cm, and everything is priced at £500 and under, making the work highly affordable.
The artworks on display come from RBSA Members, Associates, and Graduate Artists, and demonstrate the breadth of techniques and approaches employed by the Society’s artists. With an ever growing Membership, contemporary pieces sit next to more traditional works, resulting in a rich and diverse exhibition of both 2D and 3D works.

At various times throughout the exhibition, exhibiting artists will be present in the Gallery to discuss the work with visitors, and advise on how to build up a collection. Visitors can also ask advice on caring for artwork and the best ways in which to display it.

Exhibition closes: Saturday 13 June 5.00pm

Image: Michael Salt RBSA, Autumn Water

Opening Hours: Tuesday – Saturday 10.30am – 5.00pm

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 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

Poetry’s Got Form

A creative writing workshop looking at poetry from different perspectives
Join Rick Sanders from Verve for a workshop exploring poetry in all its forms. This workshop is for novice or experienced poets, or poets with a good understanding of writing poetry who want to develop specific skills in writing form poetry. This is for adults (+16yrs) only; and only suitable for those who have experience of writing poetry.

What to Bring:
Bring your passion for words, an open heart, and a willingness to explore the world through poetry. Please bring something to write on and something to write with. All other materials will be provided.

The workshop is 2 hours in duration. Please arrive ten minutes before the session as the Hive closes at 3.30 pm and you may not be able to gain access after that.

And if you like poetry, you can return later in the day to attend the Verve Open Door, a free open mic poetry event that takes place at the Hive during the evening – you might even want to perform your poems!

The mic is yours for all things spoken word, poetry and verse… Join us at VERVE Open Door to share your words.

VERVE Open Door is a chance for you to try open mic poetry and spoken word for the first time, or share crafted existing poems that you’ve been performing for years. The open mic is all about you, wherever you are on your spoken word journey.

Join us on the 3rd Tuesday of each month to socialise and jump on the mic, or just listen in to the eclectic and diverse voices of Brum.

This event is pure open mic – no headliner, no feature poet- so plenty of time for all to have a go.

You get 5 mins max to share your work. 20 slots are available to sign up for on the night – should more than 20 people want to perform, we will draw names from a hat. We have always managed to get everyone a slot who wants one so far!

It’s free to get in and will be run as a pay as you feel event, with all funds going to the venue, who are sponsoring this event for free.

VERVE operates a safe space for poetry performance and encourages voices from people of all backgrounds – everyone is welcome.

Wax carving course
18th and 19th June | 10:30 am – 14:00 pm | £250

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 Course 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 16+.

Over the two days you will have an introduction into the art of hand-carving wax models for jewellery. You will practice carving techniques as you design and carve your own pendant. 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 will be a 30-minute break in the middle of each session. There is also an opportunity to have your pendant 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

https://www.tickettailor.com/events/ruskinmilltrust/2221624

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

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

Poetry’s Got Form

A creative writing workshop looking at poetry from different perspectives
Join Rick Sanders from Verve for a workshop exploring poetry in all its forms. This workshop is for novice or experienced poets, or poets with a good understanding of writing poetry who want to develop specific skills in writing form poetry. This is for adults (+16yrs) only; and only suitable for those who have experience of writing poetry.

What to Bring:
Bring your passion for words, an open heart, and a willingness to explore the world through poetry. Please bring something to write on and something to write with. All other materials will be provided.

The workshop is 2 hours in duration. Please arrive ten minutes before the session as the Hive closes at 3.30 pm and you may not be able to gain access after that.

And if you like poetry, you can return later in the day to attend the Verve Open Door, a free open mic poetry event that takes place at the Hive during the evening – you might even want to perform your poems!

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. These classes cater to various skill levels, ensuring everyone can benefit.

Learning Calligraphy
miniscule.
Anglo-Saxon pointed miniscule refers to a specific style of the Insular minuscule scripts, characterized by a “pointed” or angular appearance. It developed in 8th-century England and was used to write both Latin and Old English texts. Its notable features include angular curves, triangular serifs, and ascenders/descenders that appear “split” or sharpened.

You will be learning how to write this in a modernised form that is well suited as a calligraphic hand today, and at the same time learning how to use a broad edged metal dip pen.

Enrolling in calligraphy classes helps master these techniques.

Wikipedia
Held at the Pen Museum, the classes are designed for both beginners and more experienced calligraphers. These calligraphy classes provide a unique opportunity to learn the key elements of calligraphy and take information away to continue developing your style at home.  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. Overall, calligraphy classes are an enriching experience.