In a striking illustration of how Blackpool School of Arts really
does teach ‘divergent thinking; practical skills and digital competencies for
the future’, ex-student Richard Weston has returned to his creative roots, 25 years after his own graduation, to create
an innovative, virtual Degree show for the Blackpool class of 2020.
As the pandemic crisis unfolded, it became clear that the
traditional Degree Show would have to be cancelled.
‘The Degree Show is the big moment that everything has been
building up to, a chance to showcase your work and to introduce yourself to the
creative sector. I’m involved in professional mentoring at the college and I
really felt the students’ disappointment’, explains Weston, an award-winning
photographer.
‘However, it was instilled in me at Blackpool that
innovation and creativity is the key to overcoming hurdles and challenges.’
Weston focussed his attentions on exploring new options. A
gallery using VR technology was already under development by college exhibition
Co-ordinator, Aaron Tonks. A live version was still some way off, but Weston
recognised key elements could be adapted.
Weston and Tonks pooled their resources, knowledge and
skills. Taking legacy virtual tour software, and integrating the newer VR
technology, the pair have created Vision2020BSOA, a 3D, online
gallery viewable without specialist headsets or software.
It’s providing a platform for students to share curated work
from the last three years, showcasing a wide range of creativity, design and
style. For many students, it’s the first time that they’ve seen their work in a
gallery setting. In going online, they’re also benefitting from the opportunity
to speak to an audience reaching far beyond the physical time and space
constraints of a traditional exhibition. Only time will tell, but Blackpool may
well be leading the way, when planning for the new normal.
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