The See Show banner, designed by Ben Wood.

The See Show 2014

For B.A.(Hons) Art and Design graduates, their end of degree show went out with a creative bang. As a quick reminder, Graphic Design and Illustration were located at the Stade Hall and Fine Art and Contemporary Craft at the Print Works. HOT’s Jessica Parker reports.

On June 13, almost two weeks ago, final year students at Brighton University unveiled their year long progression to creative industries. And at what was definitely the design show of the summer, with the second year FdA shows approaching, the endless talent flooded effortlessly through Stade Hall. It truly was a unique opportunity to view some of Hastings most up and coming designers and artists.

I was lucky enough to be invited to the private viewing on Friday 13 June, but for those unable to attend, due to the days misfortunes perhaps, here’s a quick reminder of the Graphic Design and Illustration show. Unfortunately I couldn’t offer the Print Works more than a peep last week, but if you enjoy Fashion Design or Contemporary Craft, you’d have enjoyed the show.

“A vast collection of truly talented creatives.” See Show visitor.

Facing visitors as you entered the Stade Hall was the work of illustrative graphic designer, Cassia Friello on your left and the editorial illustrations of Joshua Ross to your right. Cassia’s talent for beautifully crafted illustrations complemented her style of design perfectly, showing off her unique trade mark. Her playful yet sophisticated designs made the most of her hand drawn illustrations whilst keeping them classic and refined.

Design by Cassia Friello

Going clockwise around the room, viewers could easily be distracted by the work of Ben Wood. An 8ft tall weather app design, possibly considered inappropriate for younger viewers, stood proudly next to the other Cut the Crap android app mock ups. On the reverse side, Ben presented branding concepts for record label, Electric Prism Studios, using his skills of simplicity and minimalism to help keep his website design from being too overwhelming. Make sure to check out the works of Aidan Croucher and Lorenzo Barbieri Hermitte for more minimalist designs.

Electric Prism Studios by Ben Wood

All graduating designers/artists can now be found on the degree show website, designed and created by graphic designer, Aaron Watkins. A Mac was set up, mid room, to present the new website and the simplistic site design made it easy to find your favourite designer/artist.

Continuing around the room, I couldn’t help but notice the comic book style illustrations of Carl Potter. I may be a tad enthusiastic about comic book designs, but for me his work was the highlight of the show. Various other forms of illustration can be found on the website, including the works of Alexandra Petkovic, a favourite amongst visitors, and Poppy Foyle.

What rather confused me about the show, was the line up of suitcases which appeared to greet you as you entered the hall. It took me a while, and for others I’m sure, to understand the point of these suitcases. A student explained, “It was to challenge us to think around a tangible object”.

Designed by Daisy Tedds

From what I saw at the Print Works, there was a vast mixture of Craft, Fashion and Fine Art. The designs of Daisy Tedds made a refreshing change from endless canvases and her patterns were clearly inspired by the beauty of stain glass windows. Some pieces strongly confused me, but I don’t particularly have an artistic eye. More amazing pieces were created by Julia Mitchell, Adam Fairbrother and many more.

“A rather interesting combination of skill and vision” – See Show visitor.

The course these students have completed is available for study at Sussex Coast College Hastings, via Brighton University. Please check the information provided, as you will need an FdA level qualification to apply for this course. If you wish to study an FdA level subject, here’s the information you will need: Graphic Design, Illustration, Fine Art, Fashion Design and Contemporary Craft. The top-up degree course is run at Sussex Coast College by Andrew Robey.

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