Unwanted gifts are being turned into authentic pieces of art for a new exhibition at Walsall’s New Art Gallery.

Jumpers, kitsch ornaments and useless gadgets form part of the display by Mitra Memarzia at the venue from January 18.

The artists’ studio at the gallery is being transformed into a gift shop where unwanted items will be celebrated and given a new lease of life. During Mitra’s three month residency, visitors will be invited to question and participate in the role of gift exchange. The project forms part of The New Art Gallery’s 10th birthday celebrations where the party theme includes a display of birthday cards created by past exhibiting artists and a dance extravaganza choreographed by artist Lucienne Cole.

Birmingham-based Mitra uses a variety of styles and media including photography, installation, sculpture, film and performance. She is producing an on-line blog at www.thenewartgallerywalsall.org.uk/comment, and is encouraging people to to bring in any unwanted presents when they visit the gallery.