“Inspirational” creative work of final year students to go on display during 2016 degree shows

The best of emerging contemporary art and design practice from students at the University of Derby will be showcased to the public during the 2016 degree shows starting next week.

The Big Show is a series of live events and exhibitions across the city of Derby which offers visitors a unique opportunity to experience the work of the University’s College of Arts, Health and Social Care and Engineering students.

The Big Show runs from May 13 to June 11 and kickstarts next Friday (13) with a Music Showcase at Derby Theatre.

The live concert, which starts at 7.30pm, features a diverse mixture of rock, pop and acoustic music from Popular Music and Music Technology students and recent graduates.

From Saturday, May 28 to Saturday, June 11, visitors to the University will be able to immerse themselves in a feast of visual art, design, textiles, photography, creative expressive therapies, architecture and engineering at the Big Show Public Exhibition.

Held across Markeaton Street and Britannia Mill sites, the exhibition showcases emerging creative innovation across the strata of art and engineering education.

As part of the final degree celebrations, fashion students will see their innovative collections on the runway at the high-profile Fashion Show at Derby Theatre on Wednesday, June 1.

The students’ collections are worn by professional models and the show features an exciting light show and loud vibrant music.

And on Tuesday, June 7, Film Production students will have their work screened at a special premiere at Derby’s Quad.

The 50-minute screening, which is followed by a 20-minute student talk and Q&A session, engages with contemporary themes and practice and demonstrates how the students are able to develop their own distinctive voices and visions.

Professor Huw Davies, Dean of the College of Arts at the University of Derby, said: “The College has had a fantastic year with our students picking up a number of high profile national awards and the success of our alumni continuing to make their mark in the cultural and creative industries.

“Our final year shows are a stunning and highly visible celebration of our students’ achievements, showcasing their inspirational creative work across a variety of different art forms, from the visual arts to design, media and performing arts.

“They demonstrate the professionalism and innovation that is reflected in the reputation of the Arts at the University of Derby through our UK leading courses and facilities.”