University of Chester Spotlights Creative Brilliance in ‘All Inclusive’ Art and Design Exhibition
The University of Chester proudly presented its annual ‘All Inclusive’ Art and Design showcase earlier this week, a tribute to the creative prowess of the class of 2023. This exhibition incorporated the innovative work from all seven bachelor’s degree programmes under the university’s Art and Design umbrella: fashion design, fashion marketing communication, fine art, graphic design, interior design, photography, and product design.
The university’s press release described the event as “a testament to the unique journey and potential of each graduating student, giving a glimpse into their upcoming professional ventures.”
Top talents from each of the design disciplines were handpicked by the faculty.
Among the notable mentions, Professor Eunice Simmons, the University of Chester’s vice-chancellor, bestowed accolades upon Alexandra Novacki, a fashion design graduate, and Jess Gillet, who is concluding her bachelor’s in fashion marketing communication. Moreover, Professor Helen O’Sullivan, the provost and deputy vice-chancellor, gave special recognition to Abbie Chiocchi and Erin Gribbon, both emerging from the fashion-focused programmes.
In a remarkable turn of events, Alexandra Novacki not only garnered appreciation from the vice-chancellor but also clinched the prestigious Dean’s Award 2023. This esteemed accolade was presented by Professor David McGravie, the executive dean for the faculty of arts, humanities, and social sciences.
Novacki’s ‘Furious Creatures’, a womenswear collection, was a particular highlight. Drawing inspiration from her Polish heritage, she designed garments inspired by iconic Polish creatures such as the grey wolf, stork, and white eagle. Her designs, marked by bold tailoring and opulent materials, encapsulated strength and individuality. Novacki showcased this collection in a fashion debut at the renowned Chester Cathedral.
Wrapping up the accolades, Elouise Robinson and Tash Rowland, both fashion design majors, received special commendations from the university’s leadership trio: the vice-chancellor, provost, and dean.
Professor Eunice Simmons, vice-chancellor of the University of Chester said in a statement: “The dedication and creative talents of our exceptional Art and Design students deserve to be recognised and celebrated.”
“Congratulations to the worthy winners and all our students. They show what can be achieved and we look forward to seeing their future successes. We wish them all the best as they graduate, taking their next steps and making a further impression in art and design – and beyond,” she said.
Winner Alexandra Novacki added: “I’m honoured to receive the Dean’s Award for 2023 as well as the Vice-Chancellor’s Award for Fashion Design. With a degree alongside these, it’s a cherry on the cake. It’s a huge relief to see the hard work has paid off and I’m hugely excited for my career ahead in the world of fashion.”
All of the students’ final year projects as well as the work of first and second-year Art and Design students from recent shows can be viewed on the website of the Contemporary Art Space Chester gallery.