A striking new addition to the University Building is now complete: the Pillars of Purpose mural, designed and created by current Burnley College University Courses students.
The colourful piece was chosen from a range of designs, giving students the opportunity to work on a live brief to produce artwork that they and their fellow learners will now see every day.
Nina Parkin, Assistant Principal for University and Adult Education, had the delight of selecting the design, which is now proudly on display on floor two of the impressive University Building.
Meet Debbie Smith, Amna Mateen, Kiera Dempsey and Elly Rochford, the artists behind this incredible new artwork.
They are all currently studying BA (Hons) Art & Design at BCUC and have combined their creative talents to bring the chosen design – a fusion of the building’s structure and motifs created from BCUC’s core values – to life.
Debbie, 58, is behind the mural’s design and was inspired by her interest in seeing the wide variety of ways that people interact with creative works:
“Creating the Pillars of Purpose mural has been a wonderful experience.
“I love how public art can change a space and invite people to pause, look and connect with it.
“I enjoy working with textiles and often focus on colour, pattern and texture, so helping to create a piece that brings those qualities into the University Building has felt really meaningful.”
Amna, 20, has discovered a passion for photography during her time at BCUC.
Encouraged by her tutor, Paula Newton, she enjoys experimenting with her photos both digitally and physically to develop a unique creative voice.
Amna’s love for urban photography has led her to vibrant locations like Manchester and Soho in London, where she captures the energy of city life in her signature abstract style.
Kiera, 21, has similarly thrived in her second year at BCUC, developing her multitasking and time management skills alongside her creativity.
With a passion for illustration, Kiera enjoys experimenting with the latest industry software in her BCUC classes and dreams of starting her own freelance illustration business.
Elly, 21, has found that her time at BCUC has unlocked her imagination and new possibilities for her future. She now hopes to become a teacher, inspiring the next generation of creative talent in the local area.
This fantastic group of learners went above and beyond for this project, putting in hours and hours of hard work to create a mural that everyone at BCUC can be proud of.
Ready to discover the transformative power of art and education for yourself?
Find out more about Art & Design at BCUC and apply for a September start.
