THOUSANDS of visitors marvelled at the sheer talent of the region’s newest creative minds as a specialist arts college opened its doors to the public.
Up to 5,000 people flocked to Cleveland College of Art & Design’s univisity-level campus in Hartlepool and its Middlesbrough site for the opening nights of the annual Summer Shows, the culimation of years of toil by hundreds of students.
CCAD is one of just three remaining colleges in the country dedicated to art and design drawing students locally as well as nationally.
Graduates go on to secure top jobs in the worlds of fashion, textiles, TV, film and photography, architecture and product design, graphics, prop and set making and contemporary and fine art.
In Middlsbrough guests were treated to a spectacular carnival parade, featuring drummers, jugglers and interactive costumes created by first year art and design students.
In Hartlepool the event became a chance to explore Church Square, which CCAD has successfully transformed into a premier arts and cultural quarter.
Both summer show launches also provided the opportunity to recognise the efforts of all students while singling out the very best for a range of prestigious awards.
CCAD’s summer shows included the creative and innovative final major projects of level 1, 2, 3 and degree students, featuring displays including fashion and textiles, design crafts, ceramics, fine art, 3D design, A level art, photography, painting, drawing, illustration, graphic communications, digital art and moving images from the UK’s next generation of young talent.
The exhibitions will be open to the general public until Wednesday June 11 (Middlesbrough) and Saturday June 14 (Hartlepool).
Principal Martin Raby said: “This year’s events are particularly strong and showcase the outstanding quality of art and design produced here in our college.
“The work not only highlights the creativity and individuality that we encourage here at CCAD, it also provides a platform for our students to make the next step in their lives, whether that is to higher education or into the professional creative industries.
“It’s also an excellent opportunity for anyone considering an art and design course to come along see the work created here and the variety of courses that we have to offer.”
For further information on the opening times for CCAD’s Summer Show contact (01642) 288888 or log on to www.ccad.ac.uk.
