Unlock challenges the confines that often restrict creativity, spotlighting the remarkable outcomes when emerging designers are given the freedom to explore without limits. This graduate show celebrates the dismantling of barriers, unveiling a new era where
the talents of up-and-coming creatives are not just recognised but amplified. By embracing innovation and pushing boundaries, these designers showcase their unique visions and potential.
Join us in celebrating our journey and the transformative power of unrestricted creativity as we usher
in a future where artistic expression knows no bounds and we are free to unlock our potential.
Message from Jane Anderson
Course Director
Our wonderful graduates of 2024 have so much energy and strength of character. It has been a joy to see them grow and become themselves. Our role as tutors and lecturers is a real privilege, because we get to watch this development – the unlocking of potential – as they become graduates ready to go out and put their skills to good use, making an impact in the creative industries and the wider world.
We have been lucky this year to give students the opportunity to work on live projects for clients such as The Pratt Institute in New York, to tackle briefs set by leading agencies like DixonBaxi, BrandOpus and Rabbithole, and to hear insight from industry representatives, both locally and nationally, including many BCU alumni. It is always rewarding to welcome back graduates to share their expertise with the new generation of students, and we are sure some of this year’s graduates will be back with their own inspiring stories and creative journeys to impart wisdom in the future.
This year’s cohort have formed a brilliant community, they are confident, talented and passionate. Coming together as a team to work on projects such as this Grad Show and the Creative Exchange programme. Their skills, interests and disciplines are varied; representing a diverse city like Birmingham, we are fortunate to bring together a wide range of cultural influences, experiences, and inspiration sources. We encourage our students to speak up, to challenge and debate – to be well-rounded, thoughtful and to celebrate their own ideas. Graphic Design is the valuable skill of crafting authentic, memorable, and meaningful communications between people, and this year’s graduates represent fantastic examples of that.
This catalogue gives a small taste of the brilliant range of work; from live projects, design sprints, innovative concepts, and personal briefs, to carefully crafted design digital and analogue outcomes. Use the links, listed on each page, to see their motion graphic skills, and to look at our student portfolios, websites, and social media. We are excited to see what this inspiring generation of new designers will do and where they will go next. Class of 2024; be thoughtful designers, you have an incredible diversity of cultures and experiences to use for your inspiration. Well done, good luck and keep in touch!
Acknowledgements
First and foremost, we extend our heartfelt thanks to our incredible level 6 tutors, Jane Anderson, Martin Donnelly, Gemma Ince, Jonathan Griffiths and Theo Inglis. As well as all of the staff team who have supported us along the way and helped us unlock our potential. Your guidance and inspiration have empowered us to reach new heights. We are truly fortunate to have such talented and passionate educators leading our classes.
We are deeply grateful to everyone who has contributed to the creation and success of Unlock, a show that celebrates the outstanding efforts and achievements of our students. It would not have been possible without the commitment, creativity, and huge amount of time that was put in by many individuals.
Special thanks to the Birmingham Design team for their unwavering support and for including our graduate show in the Birmingham Design Festival. Your generosity in providing us with amazing opportunities for volunteering and networking at BDF events has been invaluable.
We would also like to say thank you to Ian Clarke from Clarkeprint, for all his assistance with our design and the printing process; your contributions have been essential in bringing our vision to life. And to Joelle Preddy, from GF Smith, for her help in making it possible for us to use this beautiful pink cover paper stock. Both Clarkeprint and GF Smith have been consistently helpful supporters of our printed work.
To our fellow students, we express our immense pride and admiration. The work showcased within these pages is a testament to your hard work and dedication. We are inspired by your passion and drive to excel, and we look forward to seeing all that you will accomplish in the future.
