The University of Wolverhampton’s School of Art is offering a package of virtual ‘experience’ art days designed to engage Sixth Form students at schools and colleges.

 

Each event mixes a presentation on studying at the School of Art with details about employability in the creative sector along with a creative workshop relevant to the wide portfolio of art and design courses offered by the University of Wolverhampton.

 

The School of Art has been offering Experience Days for number of years to enhance and develop relationships with young people, introducing them to a range of creative subjects that can lead to a variety of careers in the creative industries.

 

During the pandemic, the School of Art has been delivering the Experience Days online with between 30 and 50 pupils and students attending up to two sessions every week up until the end of December 2020.

 

Jessica Glaser, Senior Lecturer in Graphic Design at the University, said: “We have offered Experience Days for a number of years but this year the pandemic has presented a challenge. As a result, we have developed a virtual version of these events, responding to the circumstances of student groups, some of whom are working in classrooms, while others are studying from home.

 

“Projects for these workshops have been purposefully designed and do not require any specialist materials or equipment – just interest and enthusiasm. There has been an enthusiastic response and it’s been wonderful to see so many participating students engrossed in produced personal solutions to these exciting projects.” The first virtual experience event was held with students at Bournville College who focused on the theme of personal identity.

 

Lisa Thompson, Tutor at the College, said: “My students got a lot from the day, and so did I - I was interested to see how it was being delivered and students were totally engaged and focused.”

 

Amy Evans, Lecturer in Illustration at the University, said: “We are really pleased with how the students have adapted to participating with the workshops online. I am astounded by the flexibility and resilience shown by the tutors and students who have been so keen to work with us in a new way.

 

“It’s so important for young people to have access to the arts, creativity and express themselves - they have so much to say, and it’s fantastic to be able to support them in finding a creative outlet, giving them a platform for their voices.”