A MAJOR new cultural festival celebrating Birmingham’s jewellery heritage is set to launch in May 2027, with organisers promising a month-long programme of exhibitions, workshops and events.
The Birmingham Jewellery Biennial will run from May 1 to 31 across the city’s historic Jewellery Quarter and wider centre, showcasing work from leading British and international designers alongside emerging makers.
The announcement comes a year after Birmingham was awarded World Craft City status for jewellery and allied trades by the World Crafts Council, recognising more than 250 years of craftsmanship in the city.
Visitors to the biennial will be able to explore exhibitions, watch demonstrations and take part in hands-on workshops, including opportunities to design and make their own jewellery.
Organisers say the event will highlight both the city’s heritage and its ongoing innovation, with Birmingham having produced items ranging from the FA Cup to Wimbledon trophies.
The festival is being co-founded by the Jewellery Quarter Development Trust and Birmingham City University, with ambitions to establish it as a leading event in the UK’s craft calendar.
Festival director Alex Nicholson Evans said the biennial would 'put a spotlight on the incredible creative talent we have here in the UK', while Birmingham City University vice-chancellor David Mba said it would place the city’s jewellery sector on an international stage.
In the run-up to the event, jewellery makers and businesses will be invited to take part, including through a UK-wide open call for a flagship exhibition.
Further details are available at the Birmingham Jewellery Biennial website.
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