This branch is a part of a small and unique set of galleries that showcase collectable pieces of…read moreart work. They offer a welcoming and warm environment with their red-ish wall paint and friendly staff. They represent some of the finest contemporary artists of our time. From studying Art I can vaguely see they aim to break barriers and push boundaries of traditional art retailing. One way they do this is by having the artist introduce their new collection of art to the public. I'd love to come here for one of these events as I think it would be quiet special. I particularly admired the city paintings and I could see each artist has a distinctive story and many of the paintings come to life and almost tell a story. That may sound strange to read that but if you experienced it then you'd know what I'm on about. The only downside for Castle Galleries for me personally is the high prices of the paintings. They look like they are worth every penny but I'm biased towards cheap things as a recent ex student. On my last visit they started at fifty pounds but as the paintings change I will be coming back to see the new collections and hopefully purchase something.

I LOVE the art that is showcased here. As a base for local artists, you'll see work by the likes…read moreof Lucy McLauchlan displayed alongside work by more unusual artists such as Jamie Hewlett of Gorrillaz fame. The gallery itself is tiny, but the walls are always full from floor to ceiling with beautiful works available to buy. They tend to show a lot of streetart inspired work, or more print-based pieces which helps to keep costs lower than if they were selling original oils. Alongside the framed works there's always a selection of unframed options available, and small pieces displayed in cabinets which accompany the exhibitions - anything from cross-stitched computer programmer jewellery to mini toys and zines. If you're visiting the Custard Factory and want to grab a few little presents for friends, this is always a good place to pop into.

The custard factory is renowned for its creative fashion, arts and culture so it only seems fitting…read morethat the Studio4 Gallery is situated here. Although only a small space, you'll be surprised by the amount of art work available to view and buy. When you first walk in you will be overwhelmed by the variety of modern art available. From the floor to the ceiling you will find art by a varied collection of British artists, some recognised and some undiscovered which makes the shopping experience even more special and intriguing. There's lots of cool what I call 'poster art', which would look great in any swanky city centre apartment of stylish home alike. There really is something for everyone from classic remakes to fresh and funky one-offs, next time you're in Digbeth I recommend you go and check it out.

Grand Union is an artists' studios and gallery space located in the Minerva Works complex in…read moreDigbeth. At the heart of Birmingham's artistic community, Grand Union hosts a programme of free public exhibitions, talks, workshops, screenings and other events throughout the year. The artists' studios are home to some of the best-known Birmingham-based artists and are opened up periodically so that people can visit and get a glimpse into the artists' individual working spaces. The Minerva Works complex which houses Grand Union has become a real hub of activity during Digbeth First Fridays. Also located in this complex are Vivid Projects, Centrala and Stryx, which all have busy programmes. There's also a printers, graphic designers and an art supplies shop.

Grand Union is an art collective that has 8 studios and a project space for exhibitions and events…read more As I share a studio in the same building (Minerva Works) I often see them putting together projects and while some of the exhibitions they have might seem a bit left field they are certainly trying something new and bringing diversity to the industrial backdrop of Digbeth. As it is a non profit organisation they are always keen to have people help out. If you would like to get involved you should check out their website and drop them a line. It is definitely something different and interesting and I recommend supporting it even if everything they do might not be to your taste.

A smart new location for this gallery that used to be located in Moseley…read more As well as Reuben's own art, there are some other beautiful collections too, including sculptures and there is even an original Picasso there at the moment! All pieces are for sale. It is a must for serious art collectors, but for those who simply like to see great works of art, it is definitely worth popping in during your lunch break or passing through on your way to something else.

I spent a day here as part of a recruitment fair and it's a great place to have an event. Firstly…read moreit's so easy to get to by train, bus or even car as it's part of the library building, which is right next to Touchwood shopping centre, there is easy parking. Even more importantly, there is coffee shop - not a great one but very handy when you're exhibiting and you cannot leave your stand for long! Remarkably as it's council run they even have a coffee loyalty card and there is array of hot and cold snacks and of course cakes and biscuits. I didn't choose to have the event there but I will definitely recommend it, particularly if you want to attract the general public which the library does anyway.

If it was not so far from where I live I would trek to this venue weekly. I remember I wanted to…read moresee a Charlie Boorman's talk there before and as I didn't get the tickets I just popped by to check the complex itself. The galleries are quite interesting and there are plenty of contemporary art to catch up with there. Solihull Arts has Theatre, music, films, talks, literature, arts and all kind of entertainment events and workshops to attend to. I just love the fact we can check some art also in its cafe bar and the complex facilities are quite modern and easy to find. Solihull Arts Complex is on the Library Square, in the city centre. There is a car parking nearby it on Homer Road and it's just 5 minutes walking from the Solihull station.