Around 200 talented students from Cleveland College of Art & Design (CCAD) have revealed their artistic flair and celebrated their dazzling designs at the opening night of the College’s summer show.

Striking and exciting works from students studying a variety of programme and courses are on display until Wednesday 24^th June at the specialist art and design college. These include Access to Higher Education Diploma, A-Levels, Foundation Diploma, and BTEC Extended Diplomas in subjects such as photography, graphic design, costume, jewellery and interior accessories, and interactive media.

Hundreds of visitors to the exhibition are anticipated over the next six days, where they can expect to see an array of costumes, wallpapers, clothing, prints and illustrations.

Ramsey MacDonald, 19 from Hartlepool, is celebrating completing his BTEC Extended Diploma in Fashion & Textiles, and also securing a place at the prestigious Central Saint Martin’s College in London to study fashion. Ramsey produced a creative and thought-provoking collection for his final project, based on the conflicting forces of poverty and military influences in Brazil. He said: “The teachers have been great and are very experienced, which means you can learn a wide range of skills on the course, such as designer or merchandiser. The College tailors the course to your needs and nurture you as a designer. I am so excited about going to Central Saint Martin’s, I still can’t believe it!

Lucy Hutchcraft, 19, from Eaglescliffe, studied BTEC Foundation Diploma in Art & Design and as part of the show; she exhibited her final project named ‘If Looks Could Kill’, which was inspired by The Brothers Grimm fairy tale, ‘The Twelve Dancing Princesses’.

She said: “It has been an absolutely brilliant course and I have loved every part of it. The course has really helped me with my goal of getting to university. The build-up to the show has been stressful but so worth it, and it’s a really impressive show.”

Lucy is going on to study Performance Costume at The University of Edinburgh.

18-year old Hannah Wood, from Darlington, has just completed her BTEC Extended Diploma in Photography at the College. For her final project she produced a series of images influenced by surrealism and experimented with a variety of techniques, both traditional and digital.

She said: “This course has been excellent, especially the tutors, who have helped me to achieve a triple distinction star. I don’t think I could have done that without their support and I am now planning to study for a photography degree at the College’s University in Hartlepool.”

Sharron Marie Douglas, 18, from Ormesby in Middlesbrough, studied for a BTEC Extended Diploma in Fine Art and also celebrated receiving the Governors’ Award at a presentation ceremony during the show. She said: “I was very surprised to win but it feels amazing! My family couldn’t be here as my grandma is poorly and so I am going to ring them all with the good news.”

Chloe Oliver, 18 from Thorntree in Middlesbrough received the Principal’s Award for her hard work, creativity and dedication during her studies for her BTEC Extended Diploma in Fine Art.

Martin Raby, Principal, Cleveland College of Art & Design, said: “This year’s colourful and creative summer show is bigger and better than ever. The students have worked so hard throughout their studies, culminating in the production of their final projects which showcase their talent and skills in art and design. Last night’s opening show was a real success and the students deserve congratulations for their efforts. We welcome visitors to the exhibition where they can discover a fantastic display of artistic talents that our college has helped to create.”