Birmingham Open 2026 announces photography competition winner

Birmingham Open 2026 has announced the winner of its photography competition.

Kelly Hadley won the top prize after her photograph ‘A Birmingham Patchwork’ impressed the judging panel.

She earned a £2,000 cash prize, a professional portfolio review and inclusion in future exhibition opportunities.

Birmingham Open is an open art competition for emerging artists aged 18 and over in Birmingham, created by Colmore Life.

Now running for its third year in partnership with International Day of Birmingham (IDOB) and Central BID.

The competition invited artists to respond creatively to the theme of Birmingham, resulting in a diverse collection of works spanning photography, printmaking, illustration, painting and mixed media.

This year’s theme reflected the new partnership with IDOB, placing the city’s stories, people, culture and global connections at the heart of the exhibition.

The judges said: “Birmingham is a dynamic city that means many things to many people. This year’s winning submission captured the vibrancy of our home through its welcoming composition of found abstract colours.

“The photograph beautifully documents the cornerstone of The Crown pub, a location culturally associated with the legacy of Black Sabbath, alongside a commercial wayfinding sign that invites viewers into the frame.”

A graduate of the University of Wolverhampton, Kelly is a photographer with a passion for abstract urban landscapes and has collaborated with organisations including Creative Black Country and Multistory, alongside a range of photography ventures.

Kelly was also given the unique opportunity to work alongside renowned photographer Martin Parr during the King's Coronation, further developing her practice and professional experience.

Through her photography, Kelly explores the overlooked and often discarded elements of urban spaces, finding beauty and intrigue in abandoned buildings, hidden corners and the changing fabric of the city.

Kelly said:“I’m so excited to be named the winner of Birmingham Open 26 competition.

“‘A Birmingham Patchwork’ was inspired by the ever-evolving story of the city, so it’s incredibly rewarding to see that my work resonated with the judges.

“Birmingham has such an incredible creative community, and it’s a real honour to have my photography recognised alongside so many talented artists.

“I’m grateful for the opportunities this award will bring as I continue to develop my practice.”

The public is now invited to help decide the People's Choice Award, the third and final prize of the competition.

Voting is open until the exhibition closes on Wednesday 30 September, with visitors able to cast their vote by scanning a QR code at the Snow Hill Square exhibition.

The People's Choice winner will also receive a £1,000 cash prize, a portfolio review and further exhibition opportunities.

The Birmingham Open 26 exhibition is currently on display at Snow Hill Square and Victoria Square until Wednesday 30 September.

Pictured: From left - Deborette Clark, Mike Mounfield, Kelly Hadley, Kate Wolf, Timothy Ison and Ruth Millington