I've lived in and near Birmingham for a very long time but only managed to get to this gallery recently. It's wonderful with some permanent exhibitions (including some big-name artists) and a regular programme of temporary events. There's a small shop but I didn't notice anywhere selling refreshments but that didn't matter over much because the art on display is just gorgeous.Recommended.
I have been here a few times with my family. There was lots to look at, not much for the children to touch though. We loved the Monet painting and stood a while at the amazing picture despite its small size it does have visiting exhibitions one which we liked was the early money from Islam and Christianly. Very interesting. They also run clubs bit you need to look at their website for more info in that.
Wonderful art with free admission. A great location in the heart of lovely birmingham university. Easy to get too from Birmingham New Street Station, and walk to from the university station. I would highly recommend.
Although I have not had the chance to visit this attraction for a long time, The Barber Institute shows a number of interesting significant works by famous artists. Also they provide a very interesting experience for School Children with innovative hands on workshops. I will update this review after my next visit.
Tucked away the barber holds many fantastic paintings and sculptures, of the world. Easy to access by car and train Enough said
This place is a hidden gem . I've been coming to the City for years and thanks to Trip Adviser read about here and was not disappointed .We saw the last day of the Nevvison collection of war pictures which was superb !Many rate and wonderful paintings and worth adding when you visit the city
Great place that we never had visited before. Sits in the University just off the Bristol Road, there is parking nearby and we enjoyed a great free concert which happen regularly here. Lovely architecture and a great historic part of the city to be enjoyed by all.
I've been to this gallery a number of times and so I think it time to announce, on behalf of my adopted town of Birmingham, that it is one of the best small galleries anywhere. It's a well laid out gallery right from the moment you walk into the foyer and see the sculptures including the splendid Rodin at the bottom of the staircase leading toward the art gallery.The artists in the collection include Botticelli, Giovanni Bellini, Veronese, Rubens, Van Dyck, Poussin, Claude, Gainsborough, Turner, Ingres, Manet, Monet, Degas, Van Gogh, Gauguin and Magritte.The collection begins though with some fine late medieval and early renaissance works, mainly from Italy but particularly Tuscany and Umbria. I think my own personal favourite, however, is Murillo's 'The Marriage Feast At Cana.' This work would sit very comfortably in any of the world's finest galleries. I can't imagine how Lady Barber kept it from the Prado. The art gallery is just about the right size to become familiar with the works which reward repeat viewings. I should add that the Barber includes masterpieces on paper and a world class coin collection. It also has a fine concert hall that hosts top class musical performers as well as the younger talent which perform most weeks at lunchtime. Last but not least are the excellent lectures that you can attend. A jewel in the crown for Birmingham.
I spent 3 years studying at the University and only managed one visit to the Barber. Too busy studying [yeah right!]. I've made up for my youthful neglect since though. I go regularly and take family and friends too.It's like a potted history of art with fine examples from many periods and cultures though focusing on western European works. My personal favourite is Elisabeth Vigee-Le Brun's portrait of her friend, Countess Golovine. She has captured exactly the look of a lively woman who you feel you would enjoy meeting.There's always lots going on with expert tours, special exhibitions and concerts so do check on the website.
The Barber Institute is on the edge of Birmingham University's campus, a 10 minute walk from University station. It is a lively building, especially at half-term, with the gallery on the first floor. It has a well balanced selection of Western art which is well worth seeing. It is free, although with donations obviously welcomed.