Behind the Surface: Exploring the link between texture and pattern architecture

You are invited to explore texture and pattern in architecture from BCU's Cultural Collections & Archives. These images from The Concrete Society Archive together with student work based on a rare volume ‘Illustrations of the textile manufactures of India’ (1881) produced by South Kensington Museum (now V&A) will reveal locally specific images of post war Birmingham but wider instances of how Architecture influences our use of surface pattern and texture in everyday lives. The exhibition and activities are free to attend! and will explore aspects of the archives and rarely seen photographs of sculptor William Mitchell’s work. Drop into the exhibition or sign up to join our free workshops to experiment with texture in form by creating your own relief-style designs. Our colleagues and students will be available to share their insight on this unique collection.

Timings & Tours

Saturday 13 September:

1100-1200 & 1200-1300

Monday 15 September:

Exhibition open: 0900-1700

Tuesday 16 September:

Exhibition open: 0900-1700

Wednesday 17 September:

Exhibition open: 0900-1700

Thursday 18 September:

Exhibition open: 0900-1700

Friday 19 September:

Exhibition open: 0900-1700

Location & directions

The Parkside Buildings, 5 Cardigan Street, Birmingham, West Midlands, B4 7BD

Directions:

Birmingham City University, outdoor exhibition screens Parkside building, 5 Cardigan Street, B4 7RJ

Contact on day:

Anthony Hughes

Telephone number:

+447442404367

Booking information

Pre-booking requirement:

Pre-booking preferred

Booking conditions:

Workshops take place on the launch day 13th September at 1100-1200 & 1200-1300 On Saturday 13 September you can join our workshops to experiment with texture in form by creating your own relief-style designs. Our colleagues and students will be available to share their insight on this unique collection.

Booking website:

https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/behind-the-surface-tickets-1549358365579?aff=oddtdtcreator

Booking opens:

14 Aug 2025 12:00 AM

Booking closes:

13 Sep 2025 12:00 AM

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