Family Day inspires again as BCU’s annual showpiece attracts huge turnout

Almost 2,000 people flocked to Birmingham City University’s Inspired Family Day to enjoy a range of artistic, and scientific activities on a sun-soaked Saturday (10 June).

INSPIRED FESTIVAL
BIRMINGHAM CITY UNIVERSITY

Youngsters had the pick of more than 40 different projects, from creative writing and t-shirt printing, to birdbox building and face painting.

There was a host of other workshops, most promoting this year’s theme of sustainability, as BCU opened up its City Centre campus and facilities to the local community.

Visitors were also given the chance to learn yoga and first aid, as well as the opportunity to meet BCU’s robot dogs, Eric and Gizmo.

Held at BCU’s Parkside and STEAMhouse buildings, Family Day marked the start of the university’s Inspired Festival, which runs until 25 June.

Sara Harris, Deputy Dean for the Faculty of Arts, Design and Media, said: “Family Day has become a key date in the university’s calendar, so it was wonderful to see such a large turnout.

It is a fantastic way to engage with the people of Birmingham and beyond, to show off the university’s amazing facilities, and to celebrate the work we do.

Sara Harris, Deputy Dean for the Faculty of Arts, Design and Media

“I want to thank the organisers, staff and volunteers for putting on such a brilliant day, which offered such a broad range of fun activities and was the perfect way to kick off the Inspired Festival.”

Featuring the creative work of artists, actors, designers, writers and musicians from BCU’s Faculty of Arts, Design and Media, BCU’s Inspired Festival is free to visit.

From fashion and photography to jewellery and furniture, there is plenty to admire and discuss, including Madelaine Atkinson’s The Uncovered Secret Sin, a series of works and garments featuring depictions of heaven and hell, and a space-saving furniture project from Toby Hawkins.

The Inspired Festival will be held at venues across Birmingham and university’s City Centre campus, with some exhibits featuring on digital and static billboards.