Following the success of 2024’s inaugural Birmingham Creates: The Open, Colmore Business District, in partnership with Central BID are once again launching an open call competition for the city’s emerging visual artists.

Birmingham Open 25 is an open call and competition for all printable forms of artwork. It aims to give a platform to talented, emerging artists who are producing exceptional work.

This year, the theme of the open call is Light, to coincide with the first Birmingham Light Festival, taking place from 19–22 Feb. An annual multi-day event, the festival will bring the city centre to life at night through a gallery of illuminated artworks.

The judges are looking for imaginative responses that capture light as you see it. Artists may wish to document the festival specifically, or frame light in myriad other ways.

Artworks do not need to be produced specifically for the exhibition, and it is entirely optional for the artists to draw from their existing portfolio or create new work. However, the panel is encouraging creatives to use this open call as an opportunity to experiment and showcase their skills in response to the specific theme of Light.

Submissions for Birmingham Open 25 are open now until midnight on Sunday 30 March 2025.

The judging panel for Birmingham Open 25 is a diverse and dynamic group, reflecting a mix of ages, demographics, artistic styles, and professional backgrounds. It includes seasoned artists, emerging creatives, curators, and art educators, ensuring a broad perspective on the entries. Notably, last year’s competition winner, a multidisciplinary artist known for their innovative approach to blending traditional and modern techniques, joins the panel to bring their unique insight as a former entrant.

The open call will culminate with a physical outdoor group exhibition in Birmingham City Centre (Snow Hill Square, Victoria Square) in summer 2025. The overall winner will receive a £2000 cash prize plus a portfolio review. The ‘Highly Commended’ and ‘People’s Choice’ winners will each receive a portfolio review and £1000 prize.

The full open call details and competition entry requirements can be found on Colmore BID’s website.