Smethwick Imaginarium is a place-based arts programme celebrating the cultural diversity, canal heritage and community spirit of Smethwick.
Six artists working across photography, performance, poetry, graphic design, sculpture and curation are collaborating with local residents and community organisations to co-create work that explores the role of the Galton Valley Canal in our community.
The programme launches in February 2026 with free creative workshops at Smethwick Library, followed by Easter canal activities in partnership with Brasshouse Community Centre. Through summer and autumn, artists will share their work at public moments along the canal and in local venues, culminating in a celebratory festival.
Join us for free workshops and events exploring themes of heritage, ecology and wellbeing. Activities are designed for everyone: families, individuals and community groups.
February half term programme
As part of the Smethwick Imaginarium project, some of the artists involved will be visiting Smethwick Library to talk about the project and run creative activities for the local community.
Everyone is welcome - no experience needed. Refreshments provided.
Location: Smethwick Library, 100 High St, Smethwick B66 1AA
Meet the artists
Juneau Projects
(Ben Sadler & Philip Duckworth) are a collaborative artist duo whose practice is participatory and embedded in creative empowerment and shared learning. They have worked extensively with communities in urban planning, natural landscape and ecological settings, creating temporary, digital and permanent sculptures.
Sharonjit Sutton
A Birmingham-based multidisciplinary artist, designer and co-founder of the South Asian Arts Collective. Her practice involves graphic design for community, education and heritage projects, as well as paintings, videos and conceptual projects exploring cultural identity and family history.
Beth Derbyshire
An artist and educator who works with social practice, sculpture and storytelling. Her work explores themes of togetherness, displacement and active citizenship through temporary, time-based and performative works in the environment and non-art spaces.
Credits and funders
A Canal & River Trust project funded by Arts Council England and through funds raised by players of People's Postcode Lottery.
Delivered in partnership with North Smethwick Development Trust / Brasshouse Community Centre and Smethwick Interfaith Friends Group.
