EAST KENT COLLEGES: Creative Collabs launch next-gen artists
Artists at EKC Dover College are honing their crafts in preparation for their next steps
In the heart of Dover’s bustling town centre, a community of young creatives are engaging in impactful collaborative projects with local businesses.
Gaining the skills and experience needed to thrive in a range of sectors where creativity and innovation are essential, the next generation of artists at EKC Dover College are honing their crafts in preparation for their next steps.
Kirsten presenting to Barry from Blaze Signs
Set against the backdrop of views across the historic Dover Castle and beyond, EKC Dover College’s creative and design department is awash with talented locals.
Exploring mediums including fine art, graphic design, animation and photography, the budding creatives anchor their skills in live briefs, working in partnership with Kent employers to see first-hand how their skillsets can be applied to business operations.
Programme director for art and design at the College, Jacob Weeks, explains: “Working with professional clients gives our students a genuine insight into how the creative industries operate.
“It pushes them to think beyond the classroom, respond to real-world expectations, and develop the communication and professionalism that employers are looking for.
Winning designs: Left by Niamh and second place design by Amy (right)
“These projects bridge the gap between education and industry, giving our learners the confidence and experience to thrive in their future creative careers.”
Last year, Art and Design students were tasked with creating two limited-edition designs for Kent Crisps, a Christmas flavour and a flavour of the students’ choice, incorporating their own artwork alongside the company’s iconic packaging.
The final designs were judged by Kent Crisps owner, Laura Bounds MBE, and the company’s head of marketing.
After deliberation two packets were selected. A depiction of Canterbury Cathedral and Christmas markets by Amy scooped second place, whilst a Charles Dickens inspired Rochester design by Niamh, was selected as the winner.
Niamh described their approach to creating the winning design: “I chose Rochester because I wanted to highlight Charles Dickens’ messages and his links to Kent.
“I incorporated both historic pictures of Rochester and modern-day pictures, painting the scene to merge the two together. I kept on the clock as a focus point as this has remained the same throughout time.
“I was speechless when they told me I won. I have put a lot of effort into my design.”
After announcing the winner, Laura reflected: “I was absolutely blown away by the thought the students put into their designs.
“The well-rounded approach to thinking about the business, the PR, the tourism link, the economy and the flavour partners. I felt a bit emotional about these designs.
“These students have invested thought and time into creating these packets which reflects the love and passion I put into the business, it has really blown me away. Credit to them all!”
More recently, Level 2 students participated in a branding challenge, creating fully-realised concepts, including logos and brand guidelines to pitch to Blaze Signs’ design office manager, Barry Sullivan.
The challenge provided the perfect opportunity for the students to cement their Adobe skills and get a taste of what it’s like to pitch ideas to a business audience as a freelance or agency designer.
For challenge winner Kirsten, the project gave her more than just creative skills and experience pitching. The reception to her ‘Rolling Scones’ brand concept, boosted her confidence and her conviction in her ideas.
Art and Design students Lilly and Evan at Solleys
“After presenting, I realised I need to be more confident in myself. I was so nervous, but as soon as Barry said it was really good, I felt better. It’s helped me realise I need to express my ideas and be confident because people might like them.”
Talking about the collaboration, Barry added: “What I really enjoy about getting involved in this project is seeing students push themselves creatively and professionally. It gives them a genuine opportunity to test their skills, gain confidence and practice pitching their ideas – which is so important in the creative industry.”
Currently, Level 3 Art and Design students are working on an exciting project in collaboration with Solley’s Ice Cream and Cactus Graphics to develop a new summer flavour and accompanying branding.
To kick off the project, the students went on a site visit to Solley’s Ice Cream headquarters, guided by managing director Keith Morrison.
The students toured the facilities and learned about the history of the company, their approach to developing ice cream flavours and their award-winning ice cream’s brand.
Aspiring photographer and second year student Evan said: “It was really interesting to hear from Keith about the flavours that have worked well previously. He told us that they have created bacon and egg flavoured ice cream in the past!
“It is cool that they are the only manufacturer in Kent to use real dairy products in their ice cream. The trip has definitely given me some starter ideas for the project. I am looking forward to getting started now.”
The project is ongoing with the students looking to finalise their ice cream flavour and branding concepts over the coming months ahead of the summer season.
Employer collaborations like these offer EKC Dover College students the unique opportunity to develop the skills, competenciesE and experience needed to build successful careers in a range of sectors.
Learn more about Creative and Design courses at EKC Dover College and how your business can help inspire the next generation of artists.
Website: www.dovercollege.ac.uk/
Facebook: @ekcdovercollege
