Students have been sharing their ideas of how to celebrate Nelson and Colne during a creative workshop with a trio of emerging designers.
Reet So, who create socially engaged experiences for the general public, visited Creative and Digital students at Nelson and Colne College after receiving funding for a mini research project from O2 Think Big.
It is hoped the research will ultimately lead to more funding being secured to run a two day festival about commemoration in Nelson in 2017.
Reet So is a made up of Alice Withers, Lucy Courtney-Clegg and Ben Boothman – a former NCC student. As part of the day, the group encouraged students to share their ideas for the festival, thinking about everything from budget, to research, to how viable their concept would be. They spent time looking at artists that could be used for inspiration and creating a design profile that would engage the general public.
Foundation Art and Design student Amelia Rose Ward, 18, from Nelson, said: “The workshop was really interesting – we gained an insight into how we can help the local area. I have been at Nelson and Colne College for three years now, and have been given plenty of opportunities to get ready for my future.”
Alice, from Reet So, added: “We wanted to come into College to speak to young people about commemoration and public art, and what will celebrate Nelson and Colne. We also gave a presentation about our work and what we have done since graduating.
“The students were really good, and seemed really engaged – their ideas have been really inventive. It has given them an insight into how the work they do at College may translate in the real world.”
Creative and Digital students are able to explore a wide range of modules as part of their course, make the most of extensive studio and workshop space and take part in enrichment opportunities, to help them prepare for their next journey to University or into a job. They are also encouraged to produce real client briefs to help develop their portfolio.
Curriculum leader for Art and Design Joanne Hadcroft said: “Thank you to Reet So for taking the time to come into College to share their stories and run a workshop in advance of their exciting plans for a Nelson festival.
“Workshops of this nature really do help prepare our students for life after College, and gives them ideas of creative areas they would like to explore more for their future.”
With one in 11 of all UK jobs now a creative job, now is the perfect time to start a Creative and Digital course at NCC. For more information contact 01282 440272.
For more information on Reet So visit www.reetso.co.uk or the @reet_so Twitter page.
