Hundreds at Gray’s School of Art for end of year show

Student work showcased at ‘a highlight of city’s cultural calendar’

Hundreds of people gathered at Gray’s School of Art yesterday to view the eclectic work of the latest graduates as the end-of-year exhibition got under way.

Renowned as one of the main cultural events in the Aberdeen calendar, the event showcased a diverse variety of work from people in multiple disciplines, including painting, 3D design, contemporary art, fashion and textiles and communication design.

The show is sponsored by BP – who offered up prize money and commissioned trophies for winners of the selected categories.

“Our programme of support adds to the region’s rich cultural diversity”

The design award was won by 3D design student Robert Hunter, while contemporary art student Aiden Milligan scooped the fine art award.

Both received a trophy and £500.

Tim Smith, vice-president for communications and external affairs for BP North Sea, described the occasion as a “real highlight”.

He said: “BP has a long and proud history supporting RGU and the Gray’s School of Art degree show.

“Our programme of support for the arts adds to the region’s rich cultural diversity and we are delighted to be sponsoring this popular event once again.

“The degree show is a real highlight in Aberdeen’s arts and culture calendar, showcasing the very best talent among graduating students.

“BP would like to congratulate all students involved in the show and we wish them the very best for the future.”

Professor Chris O’Neil, head of Gray’s School of Art, added his view the show was a great opportunity for students.

He said: “The degree show is a fantastic celebration of the work of the students, and plays an important role in contributing towards Aberdeen’s varied and continuously developing cultural offering.”

He added: “We are very grateful to BP for its support over the years in helping make the degree show into the wonderful occasion it is. The BP Awards for both fine art and design are a great opportunity for our students and really help recognise and encourage emerging talent in the north-east.”

The students’ work is now available to view in the art school until next Saturday.

AWARD: Robert Hunter, who won the design award, with some of his ceramics

From left, Professor Chris O’Neil, painter Aiden Milligan, 3D design student Robert Hunter and Tim Smith of BP, which offered prize money and trophies