University News Last updated 16 February
Four Birmingham City University (BCU) graduates are stepping into the creative heart of Digbeth as the newest studio holders at Grand Union, one of the city’s leading arts organisations.
The Graduate Studio Programme, launched in 2017 in partnership with BCU, gives early-career artists a professional space to research, experiment, and produce new work - all while connecting with a vibrant community of creatives.
For Textiles graduate Elle MacMillan, the residency is a chance to push boundaries and explore new disciplines.
“Although Digbeth isn’t traditionally seen as a hub for textile practice, BCU gave me the confidence to position my work within new creative contexts,” she said.
“This openness has been invaluable in developing my own practice and engaging with the wider artistic community within the West Midlands.
“Having a dedicated studio is invaluable to an early career artist and will allow me to connect with other artists, engage in events across the city and better understand the space my practice requires.”
The programme, which also includes graduates Maryam Aisha, Sireen Martin, and Mads Washbrook, provides emerging artists with a collaborative, supportive environment to develop their craft and establish professional connections at a pivotal stage in their careers.
“This partnership is a great way to introduce new graduates to the artistic community here in Digbeth,” said Cheryl Jones, Director at Grand Union.
“We have seen the benefit of introducing graduates to the established community of creatives and offering them a professional space to work and develop in.
“These programmes enable a more collaborative working relationship, especially during a pivotal time in their early careers.”
Mads Washbrook is a multi-disciplinary storyteller who uses a range of mediums including painting, sculpture, performance film and writing.
She was awarded the Mike Holland Prize in 2022 and the Whitworth Wallis Fellowship in 2023/4.
“I hope to take this year as an opportunity to maintain momentum in my artistic practice, develop a new body of work and practice new and old skills,” said Mads, who graduated with a BA and MA in Fine Art from BCU.
“Studying at BCU has helped me develop the artistic skills I use within my practice but also build the confidence I need to pursue opportunities that push my career forward as a visual artist.”
In 2025, Grand Union and BCU have re-opened this opportunity in collaboration with Contemporary Other - a grassroots, disabled and artist-led organisation based in Grand Union’s studios.
“Artistic space is at a premium for all and especially future generations of artists,” said Toni Lewis, Founding Director of Contemporary Other.
“Sharing this space together means we can share practical advice, experiences and mentorship without formality or barriers, which can be particularly difficult for those who are neurodiverse or disabled.
“As professional artists, getting to work with BCU graduates is encouraging us to innovate and brings a new energy into the space.”
The residency also facilitates experimentation and the cross-fertilisation of ideas and good practice across disciplines of Art, Design & Media, in one shared space.
Find out more about the artists in residence and partnership here.
Photo: Maryam Aisha (top left), Elle MacMillan (top right), Sireen Martin (bottom left) and Mads Washbrook (bottom right).