Midland Mencap’s Community Hub, based at Weoley Castle Community Centre, is celebrating a major milestone in its ten-year partnership with Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery (BMAG) by showcasing an inspiring new exhibition this September created by adults with learning disabilities and/or autism.

The exhibition, on display at Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery until 30th September, highlights the power of creativity and inclusion through self-portraits, neurographic art, storytelling, poetry, and digital works. Inspired by the museum’s Made in Birmingham exhibition, members of the Community Hub explored their self-identity and place within the city.

This project is the result of true co-production, with members shaping the design and delivery of activities alongside artists and heritage partners. Collaborations with Unravelled Mind Studio and The Curious Project provided further opportunities for members to share their stories and talents.

Paul Jones, Senior Operations Manager for Community Services at Midland Mencap, said:

“This exhibition is about voice, visibility, and belonging. For too long, people with learning disabilities and autism have been excluded from cultural spaces. Here we proudly celebrate their creativity, talent, and vital place in Birmingham’s cultural life.”

Andrea Bonnell, Participation Manager, Birmingham Museums Trust, said:

"We’re so pleased to be able to host this exhibition at Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery as part of our partnership with Midland Mencap. It’s a celebration of creativity, community and the stories that connect us and we are delighted to be able to share it with our visitors. Our community display space only exists because of conversations had with groups like Midland Mencap and for this we are really grateful.”

The exhibition reflects Midland Mencap’s long-term commitment to ensuring that adults with learning disabilities and/or autism can access meaningful opportunities for self-expression, community connection, and cultural participation.