Epsom UCA artists wear their mortarboards
Last week, the next generation of artists and designers from the University for the Creative Arts (UCA) in Epsom received their degrees alongside Yinka Ilori MBE and Jonathan Anderson, who were awarded honorary doctorates for their outstanding contributions to the creative industries.
Held at Royal Festival Hall in London, the fashion designer Jonathan Anderson shared his experience of being a student with dyslexia and starting his own company.
He encouraged graduates not to fear failure, but to be curious, to take risks, and above all else avoid getting stuck in the mud!
He also admitted that he thought rules were useless and reflected on the value of authenticity:
“Authenticity is invaluable; originality is non-existent. Steal, adapt, borrow, he said.
The British-Nigerian artist and designer, Yinka Ilori MBE, who is known for his bold use of colour and playful designs added:
“For as long as I can remember, I’ve dreamt of being an artist… If you told my younger self where I would be today, he wouldn’t believe you.”
He also urged graduates to: “Never stop dreaming. . .always say ‘yes’ to new opportunities. We live in a world that is all about connection and connectivity. Above all, have trust in yourself, and listen to your intuition.”
The graduation ceremonies saw over 3,000 students from UCA receive their degrees and attending for the first time was UCA’s President and Vice-Chancellor, Professor Jane Roscoe, who said:
“The global arts and creative sector are vibrant – there are so many opportunities, and the major challenges facing our planet will need creatives and creativity in every shape and form. You, of course, have all been prepared for this future and your UCA degree has given you the skills and is your ticket to success.”
Spread across three days, the ceremonies marked the culmination of 3,000 students’ time at UCA, before taking the next step on their journey in the creative industries.