Eldon Square showcases Newcastle College fashion talent in stunning new mural
Newcastle’s premier shopping and leisure destination, Eldon Square, has recently unveiled an inspiring new creative mural, developed in a collaborative project with Newcastle College. This significant artistic addition underscores the centre's commitment to fostering local talent and enriching the community experience.
Stretching an impressive 24 metres, the vibrant mural serves as a dynamic showcase for the exceptional work of fashion students from various courses at Newcastle College. It intricately displays a range of elements including detailed mood boards, pages from sketchbooks, precise technical fashion flats, captivating illustrations, and professionally styled photography. This diverse collection offers viewers an exclusive "view into the creative process that drives emerging design talent," providing a fascinating glimpse behind the scenes of fashion creation.
This collaborative initiative, set to adorn Eldon Square for several weeks, extends beyond mere display. It embodies a strong commitment to nurturing and promoting the future of fashion within the North East region, while simultaneously offering students invaluable real-world experience. The project serves as a crucial platform for students to highlight their creativity beyond the confines of the classroom. Furthermore, by presenting their work in a bustling public environment, the initiative effectively "bridges the gap between education and industry," providing essential professional exposure and boosting student confidence.
The featured works represent the talent and dedication of students enrolled in multiple distinguished courses at Newcastle College. These include the FdA Fashion Design and Innovation Technologies, FdA 3D Garment Design and Product Development, BA Hons Creative Practice, and the BTEC Extended Diploma in Fashion and Textiles, illustrating the breadth and depth of fashion education available.
Helen Cowie, the Centre Director at Eldon Square, expressed her enthusiasm for the project, stating, “Eldon Square is more than just a shopping destination, it is a place where community and creativity can come together, and this collaboration perfectly illustrates this.” She further added, “We’re excited to show it to the wider Newcastle community and show them the exciting future the city has in this space,” highlighting the mall's role as a cultural hub and a supporter of regional creative growth.
Echoing this sentiment, Libby Lagun, Head of Curriculum for Art & Design at Newcastle College, commented, “This mural celebrates both the creative process and the incredible talent of our students. From early sketches to finished designs, the mural depicts the full timeline of bringing projects to life.” She emphasized the profound benefit for students, noting, “Having their work on display in such a central space is an invaluable opportunity for them to share their vision with the wider community.”
