Visual Arts students deliver successful pop-up studio at Northern Quarter creative hub
A group of ten innovative and ambitious Visual Arts students from The Manchester College recently got the opportunity to plan and deliver their own pop-up studio at the Manchester Craft and Design Centre, which is located in the city’s Northern Quarter.
Studying across a range of Visual Arts pathways, including fashion, fine art and photography, the students worked together to run the space with the support from their tutors. As part of the process, the students designed and produced their own unique products to sell to the public, gaining first-hand experience of what it means to turn creativity into an enterprise.
The pop-up featured a vibrant mix of handmade jewellery, cyanotype prints, crochet pieces and original paintings, all created by the students. The work reflected both their individual talents and the high-quality teaching, facilities and support available at the further education provider.
Alongside showcasing their technical skills, the experience gave the students the chance to develop their business acumen. From pricing and marketing to setting up the space and talking to customers, the project offered a valuable insight into the ways the aspiring professionals could make a living in the creative industries.
Queency Elizabeth, a Level 2 Visual Arts student, spoke about the experience and the new skills she gained: “It has been amazing. One of the best things has been learning a new skill, such as being able to upsell when working behind the counter.”
Rebecca Rogers, Head of Department for Visual Arts at The Manchester College, said: "This was a great opportunity for our students to gain some valuable experience as they look to build their careers as young artists. I'm now excited to see how they use their newfound expertise in the classroom next year as they continue their journeys with us."
Kate Heaton, Employability and Partnership Co-ordinator at The Manchester College, added: "It was great to hear about how much our students gained from this experience. The feedback we've had from the Manchester Craft and Design Centre has been fantastic, and I'm looking forward to working with them again."
With a Visual Arts course at The Manchester College, students can follow their passion and work towards a career in one of the fastest-growing employment sectors in the UK. Visit the website for more information.