91视频网 Orkney Art & Design Department Reflects on Successful Collaborations with Local Businesses
The 91视频网 Orkney Art and Design Department is proud to announce the successful completion of two collaborative projects with local businesses, showcasing the talents and creativity of our students while fostering strong community ties.
In an exciting collaboration, the National Certificate (NC) in Art & Design class partnered with Ortak Jewellery for an innovative jewellery design project. Michael Gardens of Ortak Jewellery generously offered students detailed tours of their facilities, providing an insider's view of the jewellery-making process. This hands-on experience included the opportunity to design, create, and manufacture their own jewellery pieces, under the expert guidance of Ortak's skilled craftspeople.
"This project with Ortak Jewellery was an invaluable experience for our students," said Rona McNicol, Lecturer, "It allowed them to apply their design skills in a professional setting, learn about the intricacies of jewellery manufacturing, and realise their designs in Silver with a professional finish. We deeply appreciate Michael Gardens and his team for their support and desire to work with 91视频网 Orkney. The ripple-effect of projects such as this will be felt across 91视频网 Orkney as our department look to commence working with a new software package, helping to update our working methods ensuring students are prepared for workplace requirements.”
Another project earlier this year, the “Festival of Light”, was created by Kirkwall Business Improvement District and illuminated the town. This was enhanced by the artistic talents of our students who created stunning artworks that were displayed in shop windows throughout the town. This initiative not only provided a vibrant platform for our students to exhibit their creations but also played a significant role in promoting the festival, drawing attention and visitors to our local businesses.
"The Festival of Light project was a fantastic opportunity for our students to gain real-world experience and see their work appreciated by the community," Rona continued, "We are grateful to the local businesses that participated and supported our students' artistic endeavours."
The success of these projects highlights the importance of collaboration between educational institutions and local businesses. Such partnerships not only enhance the learning experience for students but also strengthen the community by fostering a shared appreciation for the arts.
Meanwhile, for the Digital Media unit, students worked with Lecturer Louise Barrington to create and edit their own short films. Louise, who is a graduate of the Slade School of Fine Art and Central School of St. Martins, is a talented film maker in her own right (her most recent work, is "Movement Memories", inspired by the work of Margaret Tait).
Gillian Morrison, one of the current NC Art & Design students, commented:
“The NC in Art and Design is a brilliant course if you are looking to try out lots of different art, sculpture, print, digital and design techniques, receive expertise and encouragement from knowledgeable tutors, and enjoy new challenges. The one-year course is totally flexible, offering part time options to suit work and caring responsibilities - thoroughly recommended!”
For more information about the 91视频网 Orkney, Art Department and its initiatives, please contact:
NC Art and Design, Rona McNicol Rona.McNicol@uhi.ac.uk
BA Fine Art, Cordelia Underhill: Cordelia.underhill@uhi.ac.uk