Things to do in West Bromwich

The Public in West Bromwich has some great exhibitions running at the moment – here’s a brief run down of what’s on there – and what’s more…. they’re free!!


Collide-o-scope

A participatory installation by Naren Wilks, specially commissioned by The Public, using digital manipulation technology to create a playful and engaging spectacle.

Linda Saunders, Managing Director of The Public said,

“The Public is committed to supporting young and emerging artists, providing a place where they can not only showcase their work but can also use the building and its audience as a test bed to develop their practice.

We are delighted to be providing the opportunity for such an exciting young British talent to create this ambitious work”

Now until – until 27th March  10am – 6pm
Free entry

First Light Film Awards Showcase

Winners and nominees from the 2010 First Light Film Awards.

The Public will be showcasing short digital films and media projects, suitable for children under 12, from ten young film-makers including ‘Happy Cloud’ winner of the Best Comedy and ‘Bin Bunny Goes Green’, nominated for the Best Animation.

Now until  Sunday 27 March (Wed-Sun), 10am – 6pm
Free entry


interactive at The PublicTouch Interactive

The UK’s first open exhibition for interactive artworks.

Displayed throughout the building on individual touch screens the exhibition includes a playful work by Ellie Harrison & Bob Levene that asks ‘How clean is your Mouse?’ and a thoughtful reflection on human interaction by Coventry University student Victor Fischl.

To coincide with TOUCHINTERACTIVE 2011 The Public are exhibiting Soda Race by established interactive artist group Soda Creative.

Now until Sunday 27 March (Wed-Sun), 10am – 6pm
Free entry

Screening 2011

Open exhibition for artists working in film and video.

In total, The Public will be displaying work from 25 upcoming and established artists, based regionally, nationally and internationally, having received entries from across the Black Country as well as a far a field as Bulgaria, USA, Albania and Peru.

The West Bromwich arts centre, famed for its commitment to digital arts features a number of fixed interactive artworks including work by Blast Theory and Utani, together with a changing programme of work by internationally renowned artists

Now until Sunday 27 March (Wed-Sun), 10am – 6pm
Free entry

The Public Collection: Martin Parr

Six large format Martin Parr prints.  Part of The Public’s permanent collection.

The permanent collection, started in 2010, contains work by artists commissioned by or who have exhibited at The Public. It is the first public collection of contemporary art in Sandwell and will provide a significant cultural legacy for years to come. Other artists contained in the collection include Steve Chamberlain and Ravi Deepres.

Now until Sunday 27 March (Wed-Sun), 10am – 6pm
Free entry