Final year creative arts students at University Centre St Helens have transformed the third floor of the SmithKline Beecham building into a multi-exhibition space, featuring an eclectic range of print graphics, illustration, animation, fine art paintings, character design and digital projection.
After two years of online exhibitions, staff, students and family came together for a private viewing to celebrate the achievements of final year students on the BA (Hons) Fine Art Painting, BA (Hons) Graphic Design, BA (Hons) Game Art, BA (Hons) Theatre and Performance and FdSc Media Production degrees.
Based in the heart of St Helens Town Centre, University Centre St Helens offers a range of creative arts degrees, validated, and approved by the University of Chester and the University of Central Lancashire (UCLan). Students benefit from smaller class sizes, unrivalled access to experienced lecturers and lower tuition fees.
Graphic Design degree student, Adam, said: “Being able to come back into the studio and work as a group has been a real highlight after being at home for so long due to COVID. I liked having the freedom to do whatever I wanted with my final project and take it in any direction, creating something meaningful to me.”
For his final project, Adam created a range of concepts as part of a clothing line showcasing LGBTQI+ icons throughout history.
He said: “I wanted to focus on the gap in the market for safe queer expression; these days that usually means a t-shirt with a rainbow on it, but there’s still so much hostility and transphobia out there, and sometimes that rainbow can be a target. Expressing yourself can come with a lot of danger, so I wanted to create a way of doing that in a safe way.”
Ian Greenall, Head of Creative and Performing Arts, said: “The Vortex exhibition is the highlight of the year for our students and is the perfect opportunity for them to showcase the talent and skills they have developed and perfected throughout their degree, as they prepare to move into careers in a wide range of creative industries.
“I am always amazed by the talent and passion demonstrated by our students in their final projects, and we look forward to welcoming members of the public to view the completed works of these promising artists.”
The exhibition is open to the public until Thursday 23rd June 2022 (excluding weekends) from 10.00am to 4.00pm. Please visit the St Helens College Town Centre Campus reception for directions. We also welcome visits from schools, sixth forms, colleges and arts organisations. To book an educational visit, please email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
