Prospect recommends: Jamal Penjweny, Ikon Gallery

This year the pioneering Birmingham art space Ikon Gallery celebrates its 50th anniversary. From its origins as an octagonal glass kiosk on the edge of the Bullring shopping centre, to the gallery’s elevated status today as a highly regarded institution within its converted Victorian school building, Ikon has consistently brought the most interesting contemporary art from Birmingham, Britain and abroad to the heart of the city. Their talent spotting is legendary, from Cornelia Parker, whose famous work, 30 Pieces of Silver, was commissioned by the Ikon in 1988, to the first show in 2014, Iraqi artist Jamal Penjweny’s photography and video exhibition, “Saddam is Here.” Current Director Jonathan Watkins, who included Penjweny’s work in the Iraqi Pavilion for the 2013 Venice Biennale, remarks, “He tackles difficult issues head on, but there is also a sense of humour and whimsy.” In Ikon’s Tower Room, a series of “Ikon Icons” will be showcased: five artists associated with the gallery, starting in February with John Salt, the first to exhibit at the Ikon in 1965, whose photorealist paintings feature specially wrecked cars.

Ikon Gallery, Birmingham, from 19th February