West Midlands retail and leisure destination puts new artists in the frame alongside 50 of Britain’s best known brands

Guests visiting Resorts World this Christmas will get a glimpse of local artistic talent, thanks to a new partnership the outlet shopping destination and and a West Midlands college.

Gallery in the Glass is a community-focused project giving students from Solihull College’s ’Get Gallery Ready’ bootcamp a high-profile platform to exhibit their work right beside leading retail brands. 

The pop-up exhibition opened on December 5 and is running until January 14, capitalising on the busy festive period.

Led by acclaimed art historian and curator Ruth Millington, and funded by the West Midlands Combined Authority, the college bootcamp supports aspiring artists, freelancers, and creative entrepreneurs as they take their next steps in the art world. Through Gallery in the Glass, Resorts World is championing local talent, offering a space for artists to share their work with the public.

Home to around 50 brands including Next Outlet, Nike, Miller & Carter, Cineworld and Hollywood Bowl, Resorts World Birmingham also runs a calendar of festive events that makes it a go-to destination for outlet shopping, dining and seasonal celebrations.

The students’ work, which will be located next to Skopes, will also be available to buy – giving these emerging artists the chance to commercialise their talent.

Holly Ryland-Jones, Events Manager at Resorts World, said: “Gallery in the Glass allows us to genuinely support local creativity, whilst giving our guests the chance to view unique local talent they may not otherwise see. 

“When our former Claire’s unit became vacant, after the brand closed 145 stores across the UK, we wanted to utilise it and give back to the local community. 

“This exhibit gives emerging local artists real exposure, especially at a time of year when our footfall is naturally high… and creates a new point of interest for our guests.”

The project features work from 15 artists, with Resorts World selecting the final line-up through an open call to ensure an exciting mix of pieces for the public to enjoy.

Milly Jackson, one of the artists with their work on display added: “I’m delighted to be part of the Gallery in the Glass project. It’s such a great opportunity to share our

work in a public space during the busy festive season. Huge thanks to Resorts World for supporting local artists and bringing art into everyday life in a fun and engaging way!”

Gallery in the Glass opens on 5 December, kicking off Resorts World’s Christmas celebrations. 

For more information, visit the Resorts World Website.

Alongside the exhibition, Resorts World is giving visitors the chance to win any piece of artwork

featured in the display, by simply scanning the QR code showcased on the display, entering them into a festive prize draw.

About Resorts World

Resorts World Birmingham is the UK’s leading integrated leisure and retail destination, offering a mix of shopping, dining, entertainment, and cultural experiences under one roof. Home to high-street favourites, independent retailers, and a programme of seasonal events, the centre attracts millions of visitors each year from across the West Midlands and beyond.

As a community-focused destination, Resorts World Birmingham supports local initiatives,

celebrates emerging talent, and provides platforms for creativity, culture, and innovation. With a

range of experiences designed for families, visitors, and business partners, the centre continues to

evolve as a vibrant hub for both regional and national audiences.

About Gallery In The Glass

The Get Gallery Ready bootcamp is a free programme that helps emerging creatives from Solihull

College & University Centre build confidence and exhibit professionally. Participants benefit from one-on-one mentorship with Ruth Millington, a highly respected art historian, critic, curator, and author. In addition to professional feedback on gallery statements and portfolios, and hands-on experience curating work and collaborating on group exhibits.

The artists exhibiting at the Resorts World include: Anna Maxwell, Bethany Coutts, Crow Dillon-Parkin, Gorana Law, Janice Rider, Kerrie Dale, Lee Harvey, Marta Pieroni, Maya Davis-Stokes, Milly Jackson, Natalie Mills, Sam Weeks, Shayan Mawlood, Tanya Farrugia, and Yulia Lisle.

Artists from the bootcamp will also exhibit at The Core’s ‘Winter Folk’ exhibition, from 12 December- 10 January.