Ulster University has today announced a two-year partnership with independent law firm Carson McDowell to support Belfast School of Art’s annual degree shows.
Showcasing the outstanding work of the School’s talented artists and creatives, the annual event is free to attend and will be open to the public on Friday 9 June at the university’s Belfast campus.
The degree show will present original artwork created by final year and masters level students across the Belfast School of Art, where visitors will get to experience illustration, graphic design, fine art, photography and video, product design, silversmithing, ceramics, textiles and fashion exhibit, alongside more contemporary forms such as animation, games design, user experience and service design.
Welcoming news of the partnership, Dr Brian Dixon, Head of the Belfast School of Art, Ulster University commented:
“The Belfast School of Art is delighted to enter this renewed partnership with Carson McDowell which feeds into a series of exciting recent developments for the School. For example, last year saw alumni and PhD researchers win the Turner Prize as members of the Array Collective and, through our contributions to the Ulster Screen Academy, we continue to lead on creative industries growth within the region. We are also very proud to be launching a bespoke School brand this summer, further establishing our presence on the global stage.
“Collectively, all of this builds on an esteemed legacy, stretching back to 1849. Indeed, some of the most celebrated artists on the island having such as Paul Henry having previously been studied here historically. Carson McDowell’s partnership will allow us to continue support emergent artists and designers to make their mark, shaping culture and driving positive social change both locally and around the world.”
Neasa Quigley, Senior Partner, Carson McDowell added:
“We are delighted, post-pandemic, to be reigniting a partnership that began in 2012 and to continue to showcase the world-class talent and skill of our creative students. the arts and creative industries is a hugely important growth sector in Northern Ireland that is already recognised on the global stage. By supporting the Ulster University Belfast School of Art annual degree shows we believe we are investing in our shared future, as the successful career development of these individual artists and creatives will generate additional social and economic benefits for the region through the development of innovative concepts, ideas, knowledge and networks.”