By Ben Aulakh
A Birmingham venue that has hosted work from some of the world’s most recognised artists is to close.
Ikon Eastside, the sister art space to the Ikon galley on Brindleyplace, will shut its doors in April, due to cuts in public funding.
The exhibition space has been part of the landscape of Digbeth for more than five years, originally occupying two disused industrial buildings before settling at 183 Fazeley Street in 2008.
The space has been the canvas for work by internationally renowned artists such as Andy Warhol, Damián Ortega, Józef Robakowski and Siobhan Davies Dance.
Jonathan Watkins, Ikon Director said. “We are extremely saddened to be losing Ikon Eastside.
“However our commitment to bringing internationally recognised art to the city is unwavering.”
The site has been a key venue for cultural festivals such as Flatpack, Supersonic and the International Dance Festival; its presence has also encouraged new artist-led ventures to happen in the area.
Ikon will continue its involvement with the district through a number of events and through its membership of the Eastside Contemporary Art Consortium, a group dedicated to promoting cultural regeneration.
The final event to fill the art space will be Rites of Spring, a celebratory three day music festival from April 7 to 9, featuring Turner Prize winner Martin Creed, Modified Toy Orchestra and epic45.
Mr Watkins added, “Looking to the future, our goal remains to create a permanent museum of contemporary art for Birmingham.”
The main galleries in Brindleyplace will remain open to the public as normal.
Photograph from www.ikon-gallery.co.uk/news
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