See tomorrow's creatives today from Cumbria's university

The university’s Institute of Education, Arts and Society is inviting people to its undergraduate degree show 2025 - Made in Carlisle – taking place on its Brampton Road campus in Carlisle, where studio spaces have been transformed into exhibition galleries that are free and open to visitors.

The exhibition showcases the work of this year’s 70 final year students from across a range of subjects including Film and Television, Fine Art, Games Design, Graphic Design, Illustration, Photography and Wildlife Media.

This annual event provides a platform for emerging artists to present their innovative ideas and unique perspectives and celebrates the creative achievements of our final year students. This is an excellent opportunity to see some of the best up and coming talent in the region. The exhibition not only highlights the students' technical skills but also delves into the deeper meanings and concepts behind their artworks, sparking conversations and inspiring new ideas.

Dr Ruth Harrison-Palmer, Dean of the Institute of Education, Arts and Society, said:

“We’re so pleased to share our students’ work publicly and celebrate their success as they progress. The annual Degree Show is both a celebration of students and their work, and a critical point in their professional careers.

“The exhibitors will be moving into new communities where they will be fully equipped to practice their specialism and have a real-world impact on those they work with and on those that experience their work.”

Third year BA (Hons) Wildlife Media students, Issy Drake from Macclesfield and Poppy Hotham from Hartlepool said:

“The practical aspects of our course have enabled us to learn new skills and techniques in filmmaking and photography.  The opportunity to spend time with industry specialists and develop our communication skills has been a good experience that will help with our future plans”.

Third year BA (Hons) Illustration student, Abbie Hodges, from Preston, said:

“I chose to study at the University of Cumbria because of the small course size and the chance to get one-to-one support from lecturers. That kind of close guidance really sets Cumbria apart from bigger universities, and it’s made such a difference to how I’ve learned and developed.

“What I’ve enjoyed most is having access to brilliant studio space where I’ve been able to properly explore and experiment with my ideas, have a space that’s separate from where I live, and bounce ideas around with other students. The sense of community on the course has been amazing. We’ve built something really supportive and collaborative, which has made the whole experience feel much more personal.

“On top of that, the support and approachability of the lecturers has really helped me grow in confidence and push my practice further, preparing me to take the next steps into the professional illustration industry after graduation.”

Liverpool-born Paul O’Donohue worked for over 35 years in health and social care before studying Fine Art and said:

“Living in Carlisle I wanted to study local and develop my skills in painting and sculptural installations focusing on socio-political issues.  The specialist tutors enabled me to explore some powerful messages and have the freedom to develop my art in a supportive and challenging studio environment”.

Those unable to attend Made in Carlisle in person can enjoy the final year students’ work online – https://uocdegreeshow.uk

• Made in Carlise runs from Monday 2 June until Friday 6 June and is open daily between 10:00 and 16:00, closing with an open day and family viewing on Saturday 7 June between 10:00 and 15:00.

ENDS