Behind Birmingham’s Museum Magic: The Creators Crafting Cultural Experiences

The Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery (BMAG) is reopening its newly revitalised medieval gallery this week, thanks to a team of historians, designers, and technicians who have spent two years piecing together artefacts and stories to bring the period alive for visitors. This project, led by curator Emma Wainwright and conservator Tariq Shah, represents more than just a display refresh, it highlights the dedicated professionals working behind the scenes to preserve and promote Birmingham’s rich cultural heritage.

Interest in museum and gallery transformations across Birmingham has surged recently as local institutions adapt to a growing audience eager for immersive and educational experiences. With public footfall rising 18% citywide at cultural venues since January, the timing of BMAG's gallery reopening aligns with wider efforts to rejuvenate Birmingham’s cultural quarter and renew community engagement post-pandemic.

Local Places, Local People

BMAG, situated on Chamberlain Square, serves as a cornerstone for Birmingham’s cultural district. Alongside it, the Ikon Gallery on Brindleyplace has simultaneously been working through its own revamp, sourcing innovative local artists to spotlight. The collaboration behind BMAG’s medieval project included partnerships with the Birmingham Museum Trust and local universities like the University of Birmingham’s School of History and Cultures. This interdisciplinary approach enabled teams to combine scholarly research with the latest digital display technologies.

Technical teams, led by engineer and exhibit developer Carys Jones, engineered interactive touchscreen displays that allow visitors to virtually examine 700-year-old manuscripts and medieval armour. Conservationists like Shah painstakingly restored fragile items recovered from the region, some dating back to the 14th century, ensuring their integrity for future generations. Together, these experts exemplify how a blend of skills and local knowledge shapes the city’s vibrant museum scene.

Numbers behind the Scenes

The BMAG medieval gallery project cost approximately £1.2 million, funded largely through a combination of public grants from Arts Council England and private donations managed by the Birmingham Museums Trust. The museum has recorded a 22% increase in donations since announcing the gallery refresh last year, evidencing strong local and tourist interest. Visitor numbers are projected to rise from 350,000 annually to beyond 400,000 in 2027, reinforcing the economic and cultural value embedded in such investments.
Meanwhile, BMAG employs over 120 full-time staff, with around 30 specialising in collections care, interpretation, and educational outreach, underscoring the human resource effort required to sustain city museums. The Ikon Gallery’s concurrent artist-in-residence program, funded through a £250,000 National Lottery grant, further contributes to Birmingham’s creative economy by supporting emerging local talent.

These figures reflect a broader trend nationwide, with museums and galleries emphasizing accessibility and technological integration to attract contemporary visitors, particularly younger audiences who are digital natives.

Looking ahead, Birmingham’s cultural institutions are launching joint programming for the Birmingham 2026 Commonwealth Games, providing curated exhibitions that explore the city’s historical ties and diverse communities. Visitors interested in engaging with these cultural offerings can purchase combined tickets for BMAG and the Ikon Gallery at £18 for adults, with concessions available for under-18s and seniors. Booking in advance is advised to ensure access to special guided tours coordinated by the museum education teams.

By focusing on the stories behind the exhibits and spotlighting those who create these experiences, Birmingham is not only preserving its heritage but also fostering a sense of collective identity and pride. With renewed spaces and committed expertise, the city’s museum and gallery scene stands ready to welcome and educate future generations, weaving history into the fabric of contemporary life.