Digbeth’s fresh independent art space, Seventh Circle, has launched an open-call exhibition dedicated to spotlighting the extraordinary talent currently thriving within Birmingham.

Following their recent expansion and relocation, founders Marie Hutton and Robin “Chez” Chesworth mark the milestone with a show that speaks ‘directly to the power and necessity of independent, artist‑led spaces in the West Midlands.’

Renaissance brings together 40 artists, the vast majority based in Birmingham, exploring the theme of “rebirth” in all its forms: transformation, renewal, and the courageous act of beginning again.

“Nothing compares to standing in front of an artwork and seeing the texture, the scale, the hand of the artist,” says co‑founder Marie Hutton. “We built a space that puts that connection first. Birmingham is overflowing with world‑class talent, but the infrastructure hasn’t kept up. Seventh Circle is where local creatives get to be seen and heard on their own terms, in their own city.”

To ensure the exhibition is as much about community as it is about the artists, Seventh Circle has introduced a dual‑award system. The Director’s Choice Award, selected by Marie and Chez, offers a pivotal prize: a solo exhibition and supported Private View later in the year, a genuine career‑shifting opportunity designed to elevate an independent artist’s practice.

“We wanted this show to be more than an exhibition,” says Chez. “It’s a commitment. When our artists grow, the whole city grows with them. Art and culture feed the heart and soul of a place, they’re its legacy.”

The People’s Choice Award invites every visitor to take part in the process. By voting for the piece that resonates most, the public directly decides which artist will receive a £150 bespoke framing prize from Seventh Circle’s in‑house workshop.

The collection spans fine art, sculpture, installation, ceramics, printmaking, and mixed media, and runs until Sun 22 Feb.