What started as a joke turned promo for ‘Joe Lycett’s United States of Birmingham’ TV show has now become a full-fledged annual celebration in the Second City. Now in its third year, the International Day of Birmingham (September 24) is a highlight on our calendars, and this time, you can be a part of the festivities.
In partnership with International Day of Birmingham, the popular open-call competition and exhibition supporting emerging artists, Birmingham Open 26, will return to champion creative talent inspired by the city—with the 2025 edition exhibiting over 80 emerging Brummie artists.
This year’s competition theme is ‘Birmingham’, and you are free to respond in whatever way feels most meaningful to you—this could be taking inspiration from anything from the West Midlands’ well-known friendliness to one of the eighteen Birminghams across North America visited by Joe Lycett in the 2025 TV series.
Speaking of the partnership between Birmingham Open and the International Day of Birmingham, Joe Lycett said: “Birmingham has an extraordinary and vibrant art scene, and also happens to be the best city in the world, so I fully endorse this celebration of the city and its artists.”
Inspiration might also be drawn from anything ranging from the symbols of Brum—such as bulls or canals—to everyday lived experiences, hidden stories, or global connections. Ultimately, Birmingham Open 26 is looking for any meaningful response that reflects a personal, thoughtful or imaginative take on Birmingham today.
How does the Birmingham Open 26 competition work?
The competition is now open for entries until Friday, June 19, 2026. Prizes for Birmingham Open 26 include a £2,000 cash prize for the Overall Winner, £1,000 for the Highly Commended Award and £1,000 for the People’s Choice Award, all accompanied by professional portfolio reviews for the three winning artists.
An independent judging panel will make its decision in early July, with the top 10 shortlisted artworks showcased at Snow Hill Square, and long-listed works exhibited at Victoria Square. The exhibitions will open from September 7 to 24, celebrating the final day on International Day of Birmingham.
From the top 10, members of the public will be invited to vote for their favourite work by scanning a QR code on site, with the People’s Choice Award winner announced after the exhibition has closed. To enter the Birmingham Open 26 competition, head to the Colmore Life website here.
