My first experience of Medicine was during the Frankfurt Christmas Market. I always enjoy the markets – well, for about a week, after which I’m all mulled-wined out. And so, one busy Saturday afternoon, I was enticed by a neon light announcing ‘Bakery + Gallery’. I escaped upstairs into Birmingham’s latest gallery space, which is situated on New Street. A new style of artisan bakery, café and gallery, behind Medicine’s big brown doors lies a beautiful first floor Victorian space, that was previously home to the Royal Society of Birmingham Artists. When I heard Project Birmingham were hosting a cultural festival there, I met with founder James Cronin to find out more….
Project Birmingham: celebrating the city
James explains that he founded Project Birmingham in 2015, after being inspired by the vibrant cultural scene in the city. His aim is to capture, share and enjoy it with a wider audience. For the past 3 years, Project Birmingham has put on a range of events and exhibitions showcasing local creative talent, bringing together music, art, performance, food & drink at a range of unique venues around the city. Their projects are very much focused celebrating the sights, sounds and brilliant people of Birmingham.
We, the people of Birmingham, recognise not just the potential of the city, but the potential within ourselves to forge the future of it” – Project Birmingham.
Project Birmingham presents Medicine
The first event in this new space, the festival will showcase emerging talent, as well as sharing some of Project Birmingham’s favourite acts and artists from across the city and region. James stressed that it will be something for all five senses. Each day will feature a blend of music, art and food. Expect live bands and DJs, photography and illustration, interactive exhibitions, art activities, spoken word and performance, all tied together by Medicine’s incredible food and drink offering (think cronuts and cruffins!) in its stunning new gallery venue.
Why Medicine?
The new Medicine Bakery + Gallery fuses passion for Birmingham’s creative scene and artisan baking. Previously owning the renowned Digbeth bar of the same name, the owners now run a bakery in Codsall that has become a pillar of village life. Drawing from both successes, Medicine’s extension to the centre of Birmingham will provide a creative space for the growing population of local artists and innovators. This space, a significant piece in the history of Birmingham’s relationship with art, is looking to become the centre of creative progression once again.
Dates for your diary
The festival will take place on Friday 2nd, Saturday 3rd and Sunday 4th of March. Although each day will provide a curated blend of art, music and food/drink, Friday will be focused on music, Saturday on art and Sunday on food, with full line-ups to be released over the coming weeks.
I recommend heading over to Project Birmingham’s Facebook page for more info on the 3-day event. See you at Medicine this March!
By Ruth Millington.