The Open Exhibition in Birmingham, organised by PRISM photography in collaboration with IgersBirminghamUK and Darkroom Birmingham, brought together a vibrant display of local talent at The Old Print Works in Balsall Heath. Centred on the theme of “Community“, the open exhibition showcased a diverse range of images, highlighting both the creativity and strong sense of connection within Birmingham’s photographic scene. The project is part funded by the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.
Exhibition Format and Display
Each photographer was allowed three submissions, with one image printed for display. All entries were also included in a rolling PowerPoint presentation, ensuring every photograph received visibility. Thirteen photographers, whose series particularly impressed the judges, had all three of their images printed and mounted on the surrounding whitewashed walls.
The first floor of The Old Print Works features a long room with seating along the sides and a spacious central area, making it ideal for both viewing and networking. Visitors could move easily around the exhibition, engaging with the work and with fellow photography enthusiasts.
Opening Night Highlights
The opening evening of the exhibition was a clear success, with over 75 photographers participating and more than 100 attendees. Francesco Falcini welcomed guests, followed by Hannah Greenwood speaking on behalf of the Old Printworks charity. Additional contributions came from Dan Burwood (Darkroom Birmingham) and Nadia Malik (speaking on behalf of IgersbirminghamUK), while Oksana Birchin from PRISM photography encouraged attendees to select their favourite photograph from the exhibition.
Celebrating Birmingham’s Photography Community
The exhibition highlighted the enthusiasm for photography in Birmingham and showcased the region’s vibrant creative community. While attending, I found it challenging to balance capturing images with simply enjoying the event, yet I was pleased to document several moments from the evening.
For those unable to attend the exhibition, the organisers’ Instagram channels feature a wealth of photographs and video highlights. Following PRISM Photography, Igers Birmingham UK, and Darkroom Birmingham provides a broader view of the exhibition.
A Personal Reflection
Events such as this demonstrate the strength and inclusivity of Birmingham’s photography scene. Exhibitions that combine printed work, digital displays, and opportunities for networking reinforce the city’s position as a hub for both emerging and established photographers. I look forward to attending future exhibitions and continuing to share my observations and images.
The following YouTube video shows all the submissions from the 75 photographers who submitted pictures.
A short video of the opening night of the exhibition is shown below.
My image that was displayed was from Birmingham Pride in 2024. If you want to know more about where my image originated from then please read the following blog
