Gut Feelings 2.0

4–8pm

Grand Union

Graphic design by Studio Basic, 2025. Featuring animation by Xuan Liu, modelled on images of Sevin Shabankareh.

‘Gut Feelings 2.0’ is the first large scale exhibition by Iranian multidisciplinary artist and writer Kasra Jalilipour, launching 6 June, 2025 at Grand Union, Birmingham.

‘Gut Feelings 2.0’ is an exploration of ‘queer’ lives and rebellions in 19th Century Iran, which have been purposefully hidden away from the public consciousness. Although at times, queerness has played a key and obvious role in Iranian art and literature, societal structures have ensured that it has been erased from historical memory despite always having existed in the culture.

Come along for either a relaxed opening moment or a celebratory drink at the full launch later on.

4–6pm – a more relaxed opening, a quieter time for people to enjoy the exhibition with less crowds and no bar. We ask people to wear a mask and not wear perfume for this time.

6–8pm – Full launch opening with pay bar, including a performance by Gisou Golshani as part of wider Digbeth First Friday event.

Accessibility

The exhibition is located up two flights of stairs with no lift access. We have one spacious gender-neutral bathroom with no mobility aids. Further access information will be shared via our website in a a pre-show document as the show is installed. Until then, please visit our full access guide for more information on our space: https://cms.grand-union.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Grand-Union-Visitor-Access-Guide-2-1.pdf

Venue

Grand Union

19 Minerva Works
Fazeley Street
B5 5RS