Celebrating the Grand Opening of the Cycles of Innovation Exhibition: Yesterday’s Ingenuity Inspiring Tomorrow’s Innovations.

We recently celebrated a poignant moment in the history of innovation in the West Midlands, with the grand opening of the Cycles of Innovation exhibition, in collaboration with the Birmingham Museums Trust. This event brought together visionaries, innovators, and history and bicycle enthusiasts alike, marking a unique intersection of the past ingenuities that continue to inspire the innovations of tomorrow. The evening was full of inspiration, curiosity, and a deep appreciation for the human spirit’s unending quest for progress. Suspended in the atrium of STEAMhouse, these fourteen historic bicycles, represent more than a century of local craftsmanship, innovation, and the enduring spirit of progress. The evening came out with a running theme of innovation being a cycle: one that begins with learning from what came before us. We’re proud to be making accessible a vital part of the region’s cultural and historical fabric, and to bring these amazing artifacts back into our communities.

A Night to Remember

The launch event opened its doors to a diverse audience of movers and shakers, change makers, and community groups, all of whom were keen to explore the history of Birmingham’s place as the centre of the bicycle world and it’s emerging home for innovation. The evening’s speeches kicked off with a speech from Professor Harris Beider, Pro Vice-Chancellor for Engagement, Enterprise and Innovation at BCU on the important role that community plays in innovation. We then heard from co-Chief Executive Officer at Birmingham Museums Trust, Zak Mensah, for a more detailed history on the bicycles and the importance of bringing out cultural artifacts out into the community. Martin Shepherd, General Manager at Reynolds then stepped onto stage and spoke to the power of a local business that has powered innovation in Birmingham and the cycling industry for 100 years. Dr Nathan Cardon then gave an inspiring and illuminating speech about the leading role Birmingham played in the industrial evolution around the world.

“Much like STEAMhouse’s previous life as a bicycle factory, each of the bikes has its own story – all of which are intrinsically linked to the city,” said Harris Beider, Pro Vice Chancellor of Engagement, Enterprise and Innovation. “Not only were they made locally but they have each been owned, ridden, and loved by Brummies who took them on these very streets and beyond. STEAMhouse are beyond proud to give them a new lease of life by showcasing them here.“By bringing these historic bicycles back to the public, we hope that we can not only celebrate the cycles of innovation that have defined Birmingham so far; but also inspire future generations of designers, engineers, and entrepreneurs.”Toby Watley, Director of Collections at Birmingham Museum Trust, added: “Bicycles have a very special place in Birmingham’s industrial heritage and STEAMhouse has played a pivotal role in this story. As a former bicycle works and rubber manufacturer, it’s the perfect place to showcase the bicycles and bridge the past and present dialogue of innovation.“With bicycles from the early 20th century to the present day, they are a testament to the lasting legacy of Birmingham’s industrial prowess and serve as a tribute to the workers and engineers who propelled Birmingham into the forefront of the bicycle industry.”

A Journey Through History: From Concept to Creation

The exhibition space was beautifully curated to reflect a rich tapestry of innovation. Fourteen historical bicycles are stunningly suspended from the glass ceiling of the STEAMhouse atrium. Bicycles have a special place in Birmingham’s industrial heritage. The former Belmont Works, a restored Grade II locally listed building, has significance as it once played a pivotal role in this story. From 1899 to 1918, it operated as the headquarters for the Eccles Rubber and Cycle Company as a bicycle works and rubber manufacturer. It is fitting, therefore, that these bicycles are displayed, bridging past and present in a dialogue of innovation. The awe-inspiring installation juxtaposed historical artifacts with modern prototypes, with the future electric bikes and cargo bikes on display. There was an AR display as part of the exhibition opening, as well as videos pulled from historical archives that capture Birmingham’s cycling legacy through the last century.

The Exhibition Continues

If you missed the grand opening, don’t worry—the Cycles of Innovation exhibition will continue to be open to the public, Monday to Friday, 9-5. It’s an opportunity to witness firsthand the incredible journey of human invention and to be reminded that the future of innovation is always within our reach, as long as we remain curious, creative, and connected to the past. The exhibition itself is comprised of 3 core components: the AR experience, the 14 bicycles themselves and the surrounding information panels that paint a vivid picture of the building’s history and contribution to establishing the West Midlands as the centre of the world of innovation.

We invite everyone to come and explore this remarkable celebration of creativity, where yesterday’s ideas become the seeds of tomorrow’s world-changing innovations. More information on where to find us can be found here. Join us, and be part of the cycle that keeps moving humanity and the West Midlands forward.

This exhibition is not just about looking back—it’s about moving forward. We look forward to welcoming you at the Cycles of Innovation exhibition and inspiring your innovation!