Student artists showcase strong vision for a sustainable future

Just five days into their course and showtime has already happened for Walsall College’s creative and performing arts students.   A collaborative exhibition and performance with a social conscience took place on campus as part of their course inductions.

With sustainability as the key theme, students expressed ideas and messages on stage and put them on display.

On pop-up mini stages dotted around the exhibition space, performing arts (acting) students took turns relaying a speech that activist, Greta Thunberg gave to world leaders at the 2019 UN Climate Action Summit.  They also shared words from broadcaster and biologist, David Attenborough.

Dance students then performed three routines to a soundtrack based on earth, wind and fire.

The induction exhibition featured work from art and design, graphic design, fashion and photography students.  Images inspired by plants and flowers were produced as prints, stills and canvas bag designs.

Digital and moving images were also turned into a presentation with a soundtrack accompaniment from music students.

Alan Tyler, Curriculum Delivery Manager for Art & Design at the college said: “This was the first time all our faculty students had collaborated on a showcase so early on in the year.  Their work was inspiring and provided impact.”

He continued: “While our students are already well-versed in ethical sustainability, it is important they integrate these principles into their roles as emerging artists.

“Our induction exhibition also serves as a springboard for students to express and share creativity more sustainably.  This could be anything from reducing resource usage like ink and paper to minimising technology during production and performance

“It is a ‘ground up approach’ we will explore throughout the year as a way of changing behaviours while allowing for creative freedom and innovation.”