This exhibition documents The Open Doors Project, a non-profit organisation who run an allotment project in Perry Barr for young people with special needs. Through growing, planting and digging, these vulnerable young people are offered the freedom and creativity to explore and learn beyond the barriers of mainstream education and the four walls of the typical classroom. Opening Doors is a celebration of young people with special needs in inner-city Birmingham, as well as giving homage to the good will of those who dedicate their professional time to supporting them. Their story is presented through photography, installation and objects, alongside interactive activities - including a series of creative workshops - inviting audiences themselves to become contributing artists to the exhibition.

The exhibition has been collaboratively produced as part of Mikeala Dowling's MA in Art Practices and Education at Birmingham School of Art. Mikeala is an artist and educator from Sparkbrook who is dedicated to working with young people with special needs and making positive change within her local community.

Private View: Tuesday 30th August, 6 - 8pm. Refreshments for sale in The MIX

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The exhibition is accompanied  by creative workshops:

Saturday 3rd August, 11- 2pm

Planting with Mikeala

Plant your own bulbs and nurture nature in this planting workshop

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Saturday 10th August, 11- 2pm

Make your own bird feeder with Mikeala

Use simple techniques to make your own bird feeder and give the birds a wholesome meal

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Saturday 17th August, 11- 2pm

Nature-themed arts & crafts with Mikeala

Various and & crafts activities inspired by nature

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