Natasha T.
Yelp
I'm not crazy about modern art, I just don't understand it. But I imagine that if I was...I'd ruddy love the Ikon Gallery. And therefore I won't let my artistic prejudices cloud my judgement.
For starters, it's right at home in the modern chic of Brindley Place. Fits in there as well as a noodle bar would fit in Chinatown. Plus it also means that there's other stuff to do nearby before/after you visit. Ample opportunity for an impromptu mug of coffee or nibble of food, or a romantic stroll down the canal.
On entry there is a café to your right, which I think is a lovely addition. I adore it when museums and galleries have cafés. Admittedly, I rarely use them, but I like to know that they are there. My logic baffles me sometimes, but there you go. Just past the café, also on your right, is the gallery shop. Now I do like this gallery shop. They have a quirky collection of books, magazines, postcards, cards, stickers, badges, stationary and arty goodies. Albeit the prices are at full RRP, but they DO provide you with fabulous inspiration which you can then go away and look up same items on Amazon and eBay....
As for the gallery itself...I quite like that it's set across two different floors (which are accessible by both stairs and lift). The rooms are large and white and spacious, which are brilliant for appreciating (or 'trying' to appreciate in my case) the art inside them. Just make sure you don't wear noisy shoes, as they WILL clack across the wooden & glass floors, disturbing all the people around you.
There are also a couple of rooms where you can watch films too, about the artist or the type of collection on show. On top of this there is also a learning area for children where sessions are held. Though I think adults can use this room too as there is a decent selection of reference books on the shelves which deserve perusing.
Despite not liking modern art, I do like the Ikon. And when the collection changes, I reckon I'll be back, it IS free entry after all. Who knows, maybe I'll find some modern art I actually like...