Birmingham Jewellery Biennial 2027: Three Open Calls to Get Involved

Deadlines: 2 November 2026 (events and workshops); 20 November 2026 (Open Studios)
Location: Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter and across the city, 1–31 May 2027

The UK’s new jewellery festival is inviting makers, businesses and organisations to help fill its first programme, with open calls for events, workshops and Open Studios.

The inaugural Birmingham Jewellery Biennial takes place throughout May 2027, following Birmingham’s recognition by the World Crafts Council in 2025 as a World Craft City for Jewellery and Allied Trades. Co-founded by the Jewellery Quarter Development Trust and Birmingham City University, the festival will centre on a flagship exhibition at Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery, with Open Studios, workshops, talks, tours and events across the city.

1. Events & Experiences

Any organisation can propose an event, activity or promotion that responds to the theme of jewellery, whether it’s a jeweller, supplier, shop, gallery, bar, restaurant, charity, school or performance company. There’s no fixed format. Organisations based outside Birmingham can apply, but the event must take place in the city during May 2027.

Deadline for expressions of interest: 2 November 2026
Apply: birminghamjewellerybiennial.com/events-open-call

2. Jewellery Making Workshops

Makers and organisations are invited to run jewellery workshops during May, mainly in the Jewellery Quarter. The organisers want a broad mix, from beginner and family sessions to classes for experienced makers and professional development for the trade. Workshops must be open to the public and are expected to be priced at commercial rates. Applicants need a confirmed venue, but can contact the organisers if they don’t have one yet.

Deadline for expressions of interest: 2 November 2026
Apply: birminghamjewellerybiennial.com/jewellery-making-workshops-open-call

3. Open Studios in the Jewellery Quarter

Jewellery makers can open their studio, workshop or home to the public on Saturday 1 May and/or Saturday 29 May 2027, so visitors can meet them and buy directly, commission-free. A £35 fee is due on 14 December 2026 to confirm a place. Applications are made through Birmingham Open Studios.

Deadline: 20 November 2026
Apply: birminghamjewellerybiennial.com/open-studios-in-the-jewellery-quarter

Key dates for events and workshops: successful applicants will be invited from 19 November 2026, final details are due by 21 January 2027, and the full programme will be announced on 3 March 2027. Accepted events can’t be promoted before that date.

Enquiries: coordinator@birminghamjewellerybiennial.com