RBSA Prize 2026
2026-10-01 - 2026-10-31 | Galleries 1 & 2
The biennial RBSA Prize celebrates creativity and innovation by promoting work at the cutting edge of contemporary art. While this exhibition includes work by artists based locally, nationally, and internationally, those with more contemporary practices were encouraged to submit work, allowing the RBSA to shine a light on artwork that is pushing boundaries.
As one of the most exciting contemporary arts venues in Birmingham, the RBSA Gallery provides exhibiting artists with an excellent platform to showcase their artwork to a large and diverse audience.
An enormous variety of techniques and approaches are represented in the works on display, exploring a myriad of different themes and concepts. Visitors can expect to be surprised and challenged by this exhibition with the judges selecting a stunning collection of work.
Selecting the exhibition will be:

Clare Mullet – Head of Collections, University of Birmingham
Sarah Priest – Regional Director Midlands, Bonhams Auctioneers
Robert Wenley – Deputy Director: Collections and Research, Barber Institute of Fine Arts

The following prizes will be awarded:

First Prize £1000
Second Prize £500
Third Prize £250
Up to six highly commended certificates will also be awarded.

Preview Evening: Thursday 1 October 6.00pm – 8.00pm
Exhibition closes: Saturday 31 October 5.00pm
Image: Rebeca Lopera, Untitled (Manifesto)

Birmingham Art Circle Annual Exhibition 2026 - Circle in the Square: Stories
2026-11-03 - 2026-11-14 | Gallery 2
Stories is the theme for the next Birmingham Art Circle Annual Exhibition. The exhibition will showcase artworks by established practising artists, working in a wide range of media: including printmaking, painting, drawing, sculpture, ceramics, mixed media, photography, and textiles. Come and see the tales that Birmingham Arts Circle artists want to tell.
The exhibition brings the Birmingham Art Circle back to the RBSA Gallery and St Paul’s Square once again, where the group have been pleased to hold their Annual Exhibition for many years.
Founded in 1879, Birmingham Art Circle was formed to encourage professional development amongst its artists, and to provide a forum to discuss and challenge new ideas, with an emphasis on the combination of creativity and professional, friendly connection.
The elected Members continue to work in a wide range of art forms and share these at monthly meetings to invite feedback and review with peers.
Visit the Birmingham Art Circle website.

RBSA Annual Exhibition 2026
2026-11-19 - 2027-01-02 | All Floors
With the Society’s Annual Exhibition approaching its bicentenary, 2026’s show offers the Membership, including fourteen newly elected Associates, the opportunity to show their work in the RBSA Gallery. Each new artist brings their unique artistic practice to the Society, helping to further diversify the growing Membership.
With the exceptions of 1940, 1941, and 2020, the RBSA’s flagship show, its Annual Exhibition, has featured the work of Society Members and Associates every year since its first incarnation in 1827. The Membership are encouraged to show their most recent work, allowing visitors to see an update on their practice each winter. This exhibition also allows the Society to track it own evolution, and with every new addition to the Membership comes further assurances of the RBSA’s survival for generations to come.
While the Royal Birmingham Society of Artists has a long and illustrious history, this year’s Annual Exhibition is a celebration of the almost 200 contemporary artists who make up the current Membership. With practices encompassing painting, drawing, printmaking, photography, sculpture, glassware, ceramics, textiles, videography, and installation, these artists act as custodians of the Society, and work to promote the visual arts across the region and further afield.
At various times throughout the exhibition, RBSA Members and Associates will be in the Gallery to talk to visitors and answer questions.
Preview Evening: Thursday 19 November 6.00pm – 8.00pm
Exhibition closes: Saturday 2 January 2027 5.00pm
Image: Linda Barlow RBSA, Morro Jable to the Airport July
