University News Last updated 21 September
Street portraits capturing people in Birmingham are going on display as Birmingham City University (BCU) celebrates the city with its own International Day.
Brief Encounters: Birmingham in Passing features candid portraits by photographer and IT Project Manager at BCU, Matt Peers and will be on display at the Council House from Thursday 24 September.
Shot on black and white film, the collection of over 150 images offers a timeless vision of the people and life of Birmingham.
"This is a great opportunity to create a focus on the interactions I've had in my home city," Matt said.
"I hope that people can recognise the wider human condition, and that representations of the folk of Birmingham can be elevated beyond the ordinary."
International Day of Birmingham was created by local comedian, Joe Lycett, and has been running since 2024, highlighting the city to the local community and beyond.
"This is an extensive collection, and it shares the ambitions of the festival in celebrating the character and spirit of the people of Birmingham!" Matt added.
"Creating portraits on the streets has been a part of my practice for many years, and I'm grateful to BCU for supporting me in sharing this work."
Brief Encounters: Birmingham in Passing is a free exhibition available to view at the Council House, from 24 – 25 September.
Credit: Matt Peers