How do I exhibit my artwork at Ikon?
Ikon has a proposal procedure which artists are asked to follow. The gallery welcomes exhibition proposals at any time and reviews take place each quarter. Artists wishing to submit an exhibition proposal should follow the guidelines below.
Please note that Ikon cannot acknowledge the receipt of proposals and will only contact artists after the work has been considered and a decision has been reached. Material will only be returned if a stamped self-addressed envelope is provided with the proposal and email submissions will not be considered.
Artists need to supply:
- A selection of 10-12 slides, or other documentation of the artwork, clearly labelled with the size and medium. A CD of images is also acceptable. Please do not send original artwork as Ikon cannot be held responsible for work that goes astray.
- A short statement about your work.
- A CV and some background information about yourself, such as your training and experience.
- A stamped self-addressed envelope for the return of the material.
Proposals should be addressed to the Programming Team, Ikon Gallery, 1 Oozells Square, Brindleyplace, Birmingham B1 2HS. Please note that postage is now priced by weight as well as by size. Visit the Royal Mail website for the correct postage pricing.
Are there any job vacancies at Ikon?
All current vacancies are advertised on Ikon’s website. Application forms, job descriptions, equal opportunities information and guidelines for applications can be downloaded. This information can also be requested by calling Ikon on telephone 0121 248 0708.
Ikon Gallery is always looking for occasional workers in several different areas including administration, marketing, invigilation, retail and exhibition installation. Application forms, equal opportunities information and guidelines for the various roles can be downloaded. This information can also be requested by calling Ikon on telephone 0121 248 0708.
Ikon also offers a voluntary work scheme which is available to candidates of 15 years old and over. Placements cover office administration, marketing, programming and education work. If you are interested in this programme, please download, complete and return the application form. This information can also be requested by calling Ikon on telephone 0121 248 0708.
Please note that the correct postage must be paid on all applications made to Ikon. Postage is now priced by weight as well as by size, so please refer to the Royal Mail website for the correct postage pricing.
Who do I talk to at Ikon about...?
If you have a question about Ikon’s exhibitions and events, touring shows or any aspect of the gallery’s artistic policy, please contact the Programming Department.
If you have a question about Ikon’s education programme, outreach and community work, exhibition tours, workshops and other events, please contact the Education and Interpretation Department.
If you have a question about Ikon’s visitors, mailing list, marketing, publicity or corporate hire, please contact the Marketing Department.
If you have a question about the bookshop and its stock, please contact Ikon Shop.
If you have a question about any aspect of Café Ikon or to make a reservation, please contact the café on 0121 248 0708.
How is Ikon funded?
Ikon Gallery receives annual funding from Arts Council England and Birmingham City Council. These core grants cover the gallery’s running costs, enabling Ikon to provide free entry. The exhibitions, education programme and off-site projects across the city are primarily paid for through fundraising activity. The gallery raises money through private grant giving trusts and foundations, corporate patrons and sponsors, international funding sources and generous people who donate through Ikon’s individual giving schemes. These funds are supplemented by income generated through commercial activity such as hiring out the gallery for corporate hospitality and revenue earned through the bookshop and café.
If you wish to support Ikon and donate, please follow visit the donations page.
How do I make a complaint?
If you have a complaint regarding any aspect of the gallery, please contact the Marketing Manager by post, email or telephone 0121 248 0708. Please include your contact details including name, address, telephone number and email address, if appropriate, so that a prompt response can be made.
If your complaint relates to Café Ikon, please contact the Café Manager by post or telephone 0121 248 3226.
What was the building in Oozells Square?
The Oozells Street building used to be an infant school and was constructed in 1878. It was then used as a technical college, a theatrical costume hire department and a road tax office before becoming the home of Ikon Gallery.
How many people visit Ikon?
Ikon receives approximately 121,520 visitors every year. This comprises people who frequent the gallery and Ikon Eastside, those that engage with the off-site projects and participants of the education programme. Ikon’s audience is comprised of local residents from Birmingham, people who live in the West Midlands region, visitors that travel from across the UK and international visitors from overseas. Ikon is continuously working to develop audiences and attract new visitors especially within local communities in the city.
When is Ikon open?
Please go to the Visiting section to view the opening times for Ikon's galleries, bookshop and café.
Where is Ikon Gallery located?
Please go to the Visiting section to view the location of the gallery and directions by road, public transport and on foot.
How can I book a table in the resturant?
Please contact Café Ikon directly on 0121 248 3226. You can also view the current menu by visiting the Café Ikon page.
I can't make it to Ikon, how can I purchase an item from Ikon Shop?
The full range of Ikon catalogues, limited edition multiples and a selection of other titles can be purchased online by visiting Ikon’s online shop. You can also purchase items over the telephone by contacting Ikon Shop directly on 0121 248 0711.
Can I hire Ikon to host an event?
Ikon is available to hire for external functions and previous events have included drinks receptions, breakfast meetings, presentations, cocktail parties and seated meals. Please visit the venue hire section for further details or contact Ikon’s Marketing Department to discuss your requirements.