“Birmingham’s independent arts scene thrives on its diversity. A third of Birmingham’s residents are of minority ethnic origin and this rich cultural mix helps give the city its dynamic and creative energy.
“The Ethnic City project celebrates the diversity of the city through the talent of its multicultural artists. It is a unique initiative that highlights the city’s cultural fusion and promotes it - this exhibition could be a key attraction for residents, visitors and media.”
- Neil Rami, Chief Executive, Marketing Birmingham
'I think Alexi's idea of a contemporary art show, showcasing Birmingham's ethnically diverse art community, is great because I think we really need a place where contemporary arts flourish and are enjoyed, nurturing and broadening the appreciation of these arts for audiences and participants from the whole community.'
- Claire Haixian Jia, Black History Month Coordinator at The-Drum
'Birmingham's growing and diverse arts scene is in desperate need of an event that can highlight the wealth of creativity nurtured in the 2nd city and across the West Midlands. If an organisation like the MAC can host a collection of works from artists from all communities across Birmingham it can only do good for the creative industries in the city. Such an event could also help engage these communities with one another and send out a positive message of growth, vitality and creativity. '
- Gubs Hayer, BBC Producer, Asian Network
'This will make people aware that Birmingham is not just the UK's "second city" it is the UK's "second culturaly diverse city" after London. Anything that promotes unity and harmony across cultures has to be supported.'
- Vassos Koni, President of West Midlands Greek Cypriot Association
'This is a very interesting project showcasing talented local artists. MAC always has an exciting exhibition programme, supporting local artists through exhibition, workshops and training activities and this will be no exception. Alexi K’s project will engage different communities and highlight some of the excellent work created in Birmingham'.
- Annette Naudin Lecturer BCU
'I think showcasing Birmingham's ethnically diverse art community, is great because it enhances the co-existence between the different groups Birmingham; as the one would see new sides of the other, the art and culture take the co-existence beyond sharing the same neighborhoods to reading the culture of an ethnicity through their artifacts.
A contemporary art show, showcasing Birmingham diversity is also a valuable idea when we think of all the international students coming to the city every year, those who come from around the world would have a better link with the city, as they find a form of recognition to their culture, what should get their involvement with the community.'
- Noha Atef - Social Media Consultant /Journalist, Egypt
'One of the things I love about Birmingham as an American living here is that its diversity lives out loud. The raft of cultures here is immense and Alexi's show is an opportunity not just to profile artists from the West Midlands but give an eye toward the emergent professional. This show mirrors Birmingham's identity as a beacon for art without borders.'
- John Parman, Commercial Director, Birmingham A's Basketball Club
'Everyone knows Birmingham is 'culturally diverse' but I feel we Brummies don't celebrate it enough. Our diversity really is our strong point - it needs to be cherished, nurtured, and developed through shows like these. Art is a medium where people from any background can express themselves and communicate in a powerful and meaningful way. They can connect with each other across barriers of language, culture, religion, and particularly age. This show will not just be great quality fun, it is a vital service benefitting our evolving community.'
- Uqbah Saqib, Creative Writer at Pumble & Kees
“Art shows put together by young and enthusiastic grass-roots organisers should always be welcomed and encouraged, and I heartily endorse this one.”
- David Allen, Project Manager, Animation Forum West Midlands
'One of the things that first struck me about Birmingham was the rich variety of its people. It’s an interesting place with culturally diverse communities in areas that celebrate a multitude of influences. Reflecting this in the cultural output of the city gives Brummies a greater opportunity to demonstrate pride in their culture and their artistic talents. Birmingham only benefits from showcasing its talents more and highlighting to people far and wide what life in the city is really like. I am sure this event can make a good contribution to this.'
- Jason Antoniewicz, Postgraduate Student, BCU
'One of the things that first struck me about Birmingham was the rich variety of its people. It’s an interesting place with culturally diverse communities in areas that celebrate a multitude of influences. Reflecting this in the cultural output of the city gives Brummies a greater opportunity to demonstrate pride in their culture and their artistic talents. Birmingham only benefits from showcasing its talents more and highlighting to people far and wide what life in the city is really like. I am sure this event can make a good contribution to this.'
- Jason Antoniewicz, Postgraduate Student, BCU
