A place once known around the world for making cars is welcoming a new kind of creativity. Our first Birmingham Open Studios weekend at the Allsee Innovation Centre brought artists, photographers, civic dignitaries and the local community together for a celebration of art in Longbridge – and there’s still time to experience it.
The joint Vieunite and Royal Photographic Society (RPS) Central Region exhibition returns for its final weekend on Saturday 3rd and Sunday 4th October 2026, from 11am–5pm. Admission is free, with no booking required.
From printed photography to world-class artwork displayed on Vieunite’s digital canvases, the exhibition offers an opportunity to discover art, meet its creators and explore a new cultural space in Birmingham.
A memorable opening reception
Following a successful first day, our opening reception on Saturday 26th September welcomed artists, RPS members, local residents and distinguished guests to the Innovation Centre.
Joining us were Vice Lord-Lieutenant of the West Midlands Simon Topman MBE; the Lord Mayor of Birmingham, Councillor Zaker Choudhry; and local councillors Anthony Ward and Dr Charlie Latchford.
The informal setting gave visitors time to explore the artwork and speak with the people behind it. RPS Central Region Chair Bruno Vinel, Regional Secretary Steve Ainsworth, and exhibiting artists Jo Vincent and Beth Alexandra guided civic dignitaries and other guests around the exhibition, sharing insights into the work on display. We were also delighted to welcome RPS President Simon Hill to the reception. Allsee Managing Director Baoli Zhao also showed the Lord Mayor around the facilities, introducing the work of Allsee and Vieunite.
Birmingham Open Studios founder Owen de Visser visited on Saturday afternoon and returned for the evening reception, praising the Centre’s first exhibition of this kind. His response, alongside the enthusiasm of visitors throughout the weekend, made this a particularly encouraging beginning.
Photos from the opening reception
Download the opening reception photos to use in coverage of the exhibition or share on your own channels. We’d love to see your posts – please tag Vieunite when sharing.
What can you see at the exhibition?
The exhibition brings together different ways of creating and experiencing art, with photography and expressive artwork displayed throughout the space.
Photography from RPS Central Region showcases work by regional members, with printed images reflecting local walks, creative challenges and personal artistic journeys.
World-class photography and artwork on Vieunite’s digital canvases offers a different viewing experience, presenting work through display technology designed specifically for art.
Artwork by Jo Vincent and Beth Alexandra invites visitors to explore wellbeing, identity, cultural memory and the natural world through expressive, thought-provoking pieces.
Jo and Beth will be present during the final weekend, alongside representatives from RPS and Vieunite. Whether you’re a photographer, an art enthusiast or simply curious, it’s an opportunity to ask questions and hear more about the work on display.
Art and industry in Longbridge’s next chapter
Longbridge’s manufacturing history remains a source of enormous pride. For generations, the area was associated with engineering, skilled work and cars recognised around the world. The decline of car production brought the loss of jobs and opportunities, leaving a lasting impact on the community.
Opened in April 2026, the Allsee Innovation Centre forms part of the regeneration of the former car plant site, bringing fresh investment, technology and employment to the area. Hosting Birmingham Open Studios adds another dimension to that renewal: opening the building to people who might first discover it through a love of art or an interest in their neighbourhood.
The connection feels particularly appropriate in Birmingham, a city with a rich artistic tradition alongside its achievements in engineering and manufacturing. Even the city’s coat of arms brings the two together: a blacksmith represents industry, while a female figure holding a book and painter’s palette represents art.
Here in Longbridge, that relationship has a contemporary setting. A facility dedicated to technology and innovation is also becoming a place to enjoy photography, meet artists and share ideas about the area’s future.
A warm welcome from the team
Reflecting on the opening weekend, Thomas Fraser-Bacon, Marketing Director at Allsee Technologies and Vieunite, said:
“As someone who lives locally and works here, it’s particularly rewarding to welcome the community into our new home. Longbridge has so much to be proud of, and we want to help give people just as much to look forward to, through technology, employment opportunities, art and culture.
“The response to our first weekend has been fantastic. Thank you to the artists, our RPS and Vieunite colleagues, and everyone who joined us. We’d love to welcome even more visitors through the doors this weekend.”
Visit this weekend for the final days
If you missed the opening weekend, or would like another look, join us for the final two days of the exhibition.
- Dates: Saturday 3rd and Sunday 4th October 2026
- Opening hours: 11am–5pm both days
- Venue: Allsee Innovation Centre
- Address: 1 West Works Way, Longbridge Business Park, Birmingham, B31 2JP
- Admission: Free; no booking required
- Meet: Artists Jo Vincent and Beth Alexandra, plus representatives from RPS and Vieunite
Come and discover art, photography and a new side of Longbridge. Bring a friend, meet the artists and enjoy the exhibition this weekend – we’d love to welcome you.
Vieunite is redefining how people discover and experience art through a curated digital art library and a range of Home and Pro digital canvases. With a mission to make art more accessible, Vieunite brings world-class artwork into homes, businesses, and public spaces, creating new opportunities for both audiences and artists.