
Colmore BID and Central BID are once again teaming up and launching an open call competition to spotlight Birmingham’s emerging visual artists. Following the success of 2024’s inaugural Birmingham Creates: The Open, Birmingham Open 25 is a platform for talented artists in all printable forms of artwork.
This year, the theme of the open call is ‘Light’, to coincide with the first Birmingham Light Festival, taking place from February 19 to 22, which will bring the city centre to life at night through a gallery of illuminated artworks. Judges are looking for imaginative responses that capture light as you see it.
You do not need to produce your artwork submission specifically for the exhibition. It is entirely optional for artists to draw from their existing portfolio or create new work. However, the panel is encouraging creatives to use this open call as an opportunity to experiment and showcase their skills in response to the specific theme of ‘Light’.
The open call will culminate with a physical outdoor group exhibition in Birmingham City Centre (Snow Hill Square, Victoria Square) in the summer of 2025. The overall winner will receive a £2000 cash prize plus a portfolio review. The ‘Highly Commended’ and ‘People’s Choice’ winners will each receive a portfolio review and £1000 prize.
Submissions for Birmingham Open 25 are open now until midnight on Sunday, March 30. The judging panel is made up of a diverse group, reflecting a mix of ages, demographics, artistic styles, and professional backgrounds – and includes seasoned artists, emerging creatives, curators, and art educators, ensuring a broad perspective on the entries.
Last year’s winner and a judge for Birmingham Open 25, Ava Khera said: “Winning last year’s competition was an amazing experience, giving me the opportunity to connect with so many local artists as well as receiving a portfolio review. I’m thrilled to be on the judging panel for Birmingham Open 25 and see the incredible entries ‘come to light’”.
To see the full open call details and competition entry requirements head here.