18th annual art exhibition opened in Birr Theatre & Arts Centre

BIRR Theatre & Arts Centre is once again the setting for Common Ground, its annual group exhibition, bringing together artists from the Midlands.
This year, in its 18th iteration, it explores the given theme of “A Terrible Beauty”, during which the selected artists explore a shared space, physical, emotional, and imaginative — where human experience converges.
A warm gathering marked the opening of the Exhibition in the Arts Centre as the organisers welcomed a lively crowd on Saturday, 6 December.
Despite the winter chill, the gallery was filled with emotional warmth as artists, supporters, and visitors came together to celebrate this much-loved annual event.
After a short introduction from Birr Theatre’s director Emma Nee-Haslam, highlighting the role of art centres and the impact of local artists, there was a welcoming address from the curator, Trish Taylor-Thompson, who exhibited her first solo show in Birr, last March.
Trish's thoughtful words offered a powerful introduction to the exhibition’s theme. She reflected on the challenges and possibilities inherent in exploring the spaces where lives intersect. Drawing on literature, art history, and contemporary global issues, her speech touched on the dualities that shape human experience — beauty and struggle, solitude and community, fragility and resilience.
Guests were then invited to browse the artworks, which span painting, photography, ceramic sculpture, and mixed media.
Many paused at pieces depicting energy-filled landscapes, intimate personal narratives, or social and environmental realities.
A sense of quiet engagement filled the space, with visitors discussing shared interpretations, personal reactions, and the broader impact of art in today’s world.
Several artists were present giving attendees the opportunity to hear the stories and processes behind their creative practices. Conversations unfolded naturally — some reflective, others lively — as people found connections not only with the art, but with each other.
The opening confirmed what the exhibition itself proposes: that art can bring a community together, not by offering simple answers, but by creating space for dialogue, curiosity, and understanding.
Common Ground will continue to run throughout December and well into the new year, offering visitors the chance to experience a rich and thoughtful body of work that encourages us to consider what we share, what we hope for, and how we shape the world together.
The exhibition will run at Birr Theatre & Arts Centre from December 2025 to March 2026.
Admission is free, and all are welcome.

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