Image: Alum Clive Watson (left) and illustration © Abbi Bayliss, alum. (right)
Graphic Design alum and Creative Director Clive Watson was looking to brighten up a new office development in Broadmead, Bristol. He connected with student creative agency New Wave to explore the idea of procuring artwork.
[New Wave is our student creative agency, with an upcoming show at the Arnolfini. More on that later.]
A win-win project
New Wave worked with Clive, to develop a brief commissioning student artwork to furnish all of the corridors and the public spaces in the building.
64 students worked on the project, from Illustration, Fine Art, Animation, Photography and Media Production courses. The work provided students with experience in a wide spectrum of skills within the commissioning process, including meeting clients, managing feedback, framing and installation. 40 framed prints, 70 prints for launch party gift bags, and over 100 digital images and animations were delivered.
“It was a great project – everyone was happy. It’s hard for students to find a stepping stone into the real world. It completed the circle – starting with my studies at Bower Ashton and my own career journey. I was pleased to be able to work alongside students and offer them opportunities in the commercial environment.”
Clive Watson, Director of Apply Within
What is New Wave exactly?
New Wave is a student creative agency at UWE Bristol’s School of Arts. Co-designed with students and in collaboration with industry professionals and internal partners, New Wave is redefining professional experience in higher education.
It was established in 2023, in response to internal and industry research that highlights the complex and often hidden barriers to careers in the creative industries.
New Wave is nurturing a more inclusive future for the creative industries.
Find out more at the Arnolfini show
UWE | New Wave Agency – Arnolfini presents student projects with industry clients, all facilitated by New Wave during its first year of operation.
Featuring diverse mediums and practices, from festival banners to ceramic slugs, the show runs 8 February – 16 March 2025, 11:00 – 18:00 at Arnolfini, Bristol.
To contact New Wave directly email newwave@uwe.ac.uk
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