Hidden art gallery celebrates anniversary

The gallery hosts work from more than 80 local artists

Tucked away on Institute Road in Kings Heath, Nook gallery was thought as an "unachievable dream" by Gosia Weber, but the independent art gallery is now celebrating its first anniversary.

"I've been a designer for 15 years and I was longing for a change so during the lockdown I had a pop-up gallery and it left me with this joy," Ms Weber said.

Nook gallery is a craft and art space showcasing "emerging and underrepresented" local artists' work to the public. To mark its first year open a paper exhibition is running until 30 June.

"We are a little bit hidden so it's not obvious where we are but when people walk in, it's amazing to see their faces brighten up," Ms Weber said.

"There was a need for something like this in the area, maybe in Birmingham altogether, because there isn't a lot of spaces that showcase and celebrate local art.

"Artists and makers told us there is a need for a space where people can show their creations, where they can support each other.

"It has become more of hub and place for peer support for our creatives," she said.

Jenifer Collier's paper SLR camera is one of the items on display

The exhibition, titled PAPER, will display work by Jennifer Collier and Sam Pierpoint and local names like Joe Lycett and Tat Vision.

A series of workshops and a performance by a paper puppet theatre group are also part of the exhibition.

"I think it's crucial for a lot of artists and makers to have to have a to exhibit their work on a daily basis," Ms Weber said.

"The exhibition will encourage connections with other artists and people who love art."