New Exhibition - Beyond Glitter and Feathers
Beyond Glitter and Feathers is a new exhibition in collaboration with Garry Jones, an artist and passionate advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and HIV awareness in the city. In this exhibition Garry shares his story and artwork, including his HIV diagnosis and how it’s impacted both his artwork and campaigning.
Beyond Glitter and Feathers is a collection of costumes and artwork created by Garry Jones; founder of Birmingham AIDS and HIV Memorial and a key figure in Pride parades since it started in 1997.
Garry Jones is a passionate advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and HIV awareness. He arrived in Birmingham in the 1990s to study Theatre Design and follow his dream to pursue a career in the arts.
Since the first Birmingham Pride in 1997, Garry has been a dedicated part of the celebration. He made the costume for a local drag queen called Tilly, who led the Pride celebrations that year. Over the years, Garry has worked with local community and youth groups, crafting art that has become an essential part of Pride.
In 2006, Garry received a HIV diagnosis. He soon became a vocal advocate for those living with HIV, raising awareness in the Midlands and beyond.
This exhibition reflects his artistic journey, community collaborations, and what Pride means to him.
Beyond Glitter and Feathers is now open and closes in May 2026. It’s free to enter and you don’t need to book a tour of the Back to Backs to go into the exhibition space.
Viewing times are Tuesday and Wednesday 1pm – 4:30pm, Thursday to Saturday 10am – 4:30pm and Sundays 10:30am – 4:30pm. The entrance to the exhibition space is through the second-hand bookshop, located on Hurst Street.
