1 Oozells St., Birmingham B1 2HS

Ikon Gallery

The Ikon Gallery is an English gallery of contemporary art, located in Brindleyplace, Birmingham. It is housed in the Grade II listed, neo-gothic former Oozells Street Board School, designed by John Henry Chamberlain in 1877. Ikon was set up to encourage the public to engage in contemporary art.

Location

About

As a tourist exploring the vibrant city of Birmingham, England, there is no shortage of cultural attractions to discover. One such gem is the Ikon Gallery, an internationally renowned contemporary art gallery located in the heart of the city center.

Founded in 1964, the Ikon Gallery has a rich history of showcasing groundbreaking contemporary art from around the world. Its reputation for exhibiting innovative and thought-provoking works has earned it a place as one of the UK's most respected art institutions.

The gallery itself is housed in a stunning neo-gothic building, originally designed as a school in the early 19th century. The building's impressive architecture provides a fitting backdrop for the diverse range of artworks on display. As you enter, you'll be greeted by a spacious atrium, with natural light streaming in through the glass roof.

The Ikon Gallery's permanent collection is small but carefully curated, featuring works by some of the most celebrated contemporary artists of the last few decades. These include Bridget Riley, Damien Hirst, and Cornelia Parker, to name just a few. The rotating exhibitions, however, are where the gallery really shines. With a constantly changing roster of artists and themes, there is always something new and exciting to see.

One of the standout features of the Ikon Gallery is its commitment to showcasing emerging artists alongside established names. This means you can discover exciting new talents while also exploring the work of established masters. Whether you're interested in sculpture, painting, video art, or installation pieces, there is something for everyone at the Ikon Gallery.

In addition to its exhibitions, the Ikon Gallery also offers a range of talks, workshops, and events throughout the year. These provide an opportunity to learn more about the artworks on display and engage with contemporary art in a more immersive way.

The Ikon Gallery is located in the heart of Birmingham's city center, making it easy to reach from anywhere in the city. It's also just a short walk from many of Birmingham's other cultural hotspots, including the Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery and the Symphony Hall.

Overall, a visit to the Ikon Gallery is a must for any art-loving tourist exploring Birmingham. With its stunning architecture, diverse range of artworks, and commitment to showcasing emerging artists, it's a cultural institution that truly lives up to its reputation.

Gallery

Things to do nearby

If you're visiting the Ikon Gallery in Birmingham, UK, you're in for a treat. The gallery is located in the heart of the city and is surrounded by plenty of other exciting things to see and do. Here are some of the top places and activities to check out during your visit:

1. Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery: Just a short walk from the Ikon Gallery, the Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery is home to an impressive collection of art and artifacts from around the world. Highlights include the Staffordshire Hoard, the largest hoard of Anglo-Saxon gold ever found, and the Birmingham History Galleries, which tell the story of the city from its medieval origins to the present day.

2. The Birmingham Botanical Gardens: Located just a 10-minute drive from the Ikon Gallery, the Birmingham Botanical Gardens are a peaceful oasis in the heart of the city. Here you can wander through glasshouses filled with exotic plants, stroll along the Japanese Garden, or relax on the lawns and enjoy a picnic.

3. The Bullring: If shopping is more your thing, the Bullring is just a short walk from the Ikon Gallery. This massive shopping center is home to over 160 stores, including high-end brands like Selfridges and Hugo Boss, as well as more affordable options like H&M and Zara.

4. The Custard Factory: For a taste of Birmingham's creative side, head to the Custard Factory, a bustling hub of independent shops, cafes, and studios. Here you'll find everything from vintage clothing to handmade jewelry, as well as plenty of street art and live music.

5. The Jewellery Quarter: Just a short bus or train ride from the Ikon Gallery, the Jewellery Quarter is a must-visit for anyone interested in jewelry or design. This historic neighborhood is home to over 100 jewelry shops, as well as a number of independent galleries and studios.

6. Birmingham Canal Network: For a unique perspective on the city, take a stroll along Birmingham's canal network. The canals, which were once the lifeblood of the city's industrial economy, are now a peaceful and picturesque place to walk, cycle, or even take a narrowboat tour.

7. The Electric Cinema: If you're looking for a break from all the sightseeing, why not catch a movie at the Electric Cinema? This independent cinema, located just a short walk from the Ikon Gallery, is one of the oldest working cinemas in the UK and offers a cozy, retro vibe.

Overall, there's no shortage of things to see and do near the Ikon Gallery. Whether you're interested in art, history, shopping, or just soaking up the atmosphere of this vibrant city, you're sure to find something to suit your tastes.

Opening Hours

Tuesday	11 am–5 pm
Wednesday	11 am–5 pm
Thursday	11 am–5 pm
Friday	11 am–5 pm
Saturday	11 am–5 pm
Sunday	11 am–5 pm
Monday	Closed

Contact

http://www.ikon-gallery.org/

Bookmark This Place

1001 people bookmarked this place

Places nearby

National SEA LIFE Centre Birmingham

Aquarium

Discover the incredible underwater world at the National SEA LIFE Centre Birmingham Aquarium in Birmingham, England. With over 60 displays of marine life, including seahorses, jellyfish, rays, and sharks, this state-of-the-art facility offers a unique and educational experience for families and tourists. Walk through the 360-degree Ocean Tunnel, touch and learn about sea creatures in the interactive rockpools, and view the displays from below the water's surface on the Glass Bottom Boat Adventure. With knowledgeable staff, educational talks and feeding demonstrations, and a gift shop, the National SEA LIFE Centre is a must-visit for marine life enthusiasts and anyone seeking a fun and unique day out.

Crescent Theatre

Theatre

The Crescent Theatre in Birmingham, England is a community theatre with a rich history of providing high-quality performances. From classic plays to modern dramas and musicals, visitors can enjoy an intimate theatre experience with just over 300 seats. With a range of special events throughout the year, the Crescent Theatre is a must-visit destination for any theatre lover or tourist looking to experience the vibrant arts scene in Birmingham.

LEGOLAND Discovery Centre & LEGO Store Birmingham

Tourist attraction

Discover the world of LEGO at the LEGOLAND Discovery Centre and LEGO Store in Birmingham, England. With over 58,000 square feet of interactive attractions, including a miniature version of Birmingham's landmarks and a vast range of LEGO sets and limited-edition items, this indoor theme park is the perfect destination for LEGO enthusiasts of all ages. Book in advance online and experience a fun-filled day out with the family. Don't miss out on this must-visit tourist attraction in the heart of Birmingham.

Birmingham Repertory Theatre

Theatre

Experience the best of theatre in Birmingham, England at the Birmingham Repertory Theatre. From classic plays to modern dramas, this renowned venue offers a wide range of productions to suit all tastes. Book your tickets in advance to secure your spot and immerse yourself in the stunning Art Deco design of the Grade II listed building. Don't miss out on this must-see attraction for tourists and theatre enthusiasts.

The Flapper

Pub

Looking for a unique and lively pub experience in London? Look no further than The Flapper! This cozy and inviting establishment in Camden Town offers delicious traditional English fare, creative cocktails, and regular live music events. Immerse yourself in the culture and history of London's pub scene and enjoy a night out to remember at The Flapper.

Library of Birmingham

Library

Discover the Library of Birmingham, a modern architectural marvel in the heart of the city with over a million books and a diverse range of activities for all ages. From rare books to rooftop gardens and cultural exhibitions, this must-visit attraction celebrates the city's heritage and offers a unique and enriching experience for tourists. Plan your visit today!

King Edward VII Memorial

Sculpture

Mailbox Birmingham

Shopping centre

Discover the luxury shopping experience at Mailbox Birmingham Shopping Centre. With high-end fashion, homeware, and technology stores, as well as a range of dining and entertainment options, Mailbox Birmingham is a must-visit destination for any tourist in Birmingham. Explore the stunning architecture and enjoy regular events and live music performances, all in the heart of the city.

The Coffin Works

Museum

Discover the fascinating history of the Newman Brothers at the Coffin Works Museum in Birmingham, England. Take a guided tour of the original factory building and see the various stages of coffin production. Admire the extensive collection of original coffin fittings and accessories and learn about Victorian and Edwardian attitudes towards death and mourning. Don't miss this unique and fascinating destination in the heart of the trendy Jewellery Quarter.

Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery

Museum

Discover the rich history and cultural heritage of Birmingham at the Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery. This museum showcases a diverse collection of art, ancient civilizations, and local history, making it a must-visit destination for tourists and art lovers. Admire masterpieces by Turner, Gainsborough, and Rossetti, delve into the city's industrial past, and explore thought-provoking contemporary exhibitions. Experience the best of British art and culture at the Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery.

Five Ways

Train station

Discover the top five ways to explore Birmingham, England from a tourist perspective at the Five Ways Train Station. Explore the local culture, indulge in the food scene, shop at popular destinations, see iconic landmarks, and take a day trip to nearby towns. Make the most of your visit to Birmingham with the convenience of the Five Ways Train Station as your starting point.

Pen Museum

Museum

Discover the Pen Museum in Birmingham, England, and explore the fascinating history of pen manufacturing. From the earliest quills to modern-day fountain pens, learn about the techniques and materials used to create writing instruments. Try your hand at using original machinery and attend workshops and events to deepen your knowledge. Located in the historic Jewellery Quarter, the Pen Museum offers a unique and engaging experience for tourists interested in industrial heritage and design.