Taiba Akhtar presents a Printmaking Studio as part of Ikon’s exhibition Start the Press! (9 February – 21 April 2024).
During her studio, Akhtar makes new work in response to the Birmingham Qur’an and Mingana Collection at University of Birmingham. This is part of the Qur’an in the City project, organised by Culture Forward, to increase public engagement with the Birmingham Qur’an and Mingana Collection through a programme of activities such as theatrical installations, exhibitions, workshops and lectures. Culture Forward is an initiative aimed at forging closer and more creative collaborations between the University of Birmingham, the city, and Birmingham’s cultural organisations.
Taiba Akhtar is one of eight printmakers who operate an antique, working flatbed printing press from Wolverhampton School of Art: establishing a functioning printmaking workshop, producing original prints and filling the gallery walls as artwork is made in real time. Full schedule available here.
This exhibition is supported by Freelands Foundation, Jerwood Foundation, The Saintbury Trust, University of Birmingham and University of Wolverhampton.
Start the Press! is presented as part of Ikon’s 60th anniversary year.
About the artist
Taiba Akhtar is an artist and printmaker based in Birmingham. Her evolving interest in language and communication binds the spoken, written and the read. She is particularly intrigued within the intaglio field, surprised by the wonders of etching and the magical nature of engraving. Her visuals stem from time and the passing of time, entangling thoughts, feelings and actions.
