Uni students have designs on success
Young art and design students have been handed the opportunity of a lifetime, to work with one of the world’s most creative minds.
The five University of Sunderland students – Meg Campbell, Sally Fox, Hannah Garrett, Sara Heraoua and Madi Stoica – have been named the Mike Davies Scholars 2021-2024.
Internationally-renowned architect Mike Davies has been involved in projects such as the Pompidou Centre in Paris, Lloyd’s of London, the Millennium Dome and Heathrow Terminal 5 and is known for his unique approach to urban design using the latest technology and scientific research – and his distinctive red clothing.
Over the next three years the students will receive financial support and one-toone mentoring.
Sara Heraoua, 19, from Sunderland, is in the first year of her illustration and design degree.
She said: “I am passionate about art and the mentoring and finance would be such a great help in my studies.
" I am also really looking forward to meeting Mike as he is such an inspiring man.
“I hope to gain some insight into how to turn your ideas and plans into reality. I am so grateful to have been chosen for this scholarship.”
Meg Campbell (23) from Hartlepool is studying illustration and design, and said: “I really want to learn from Mike Davies. I admire him and his work, and he could help guide me in so many ways.”
Meg is hoping that - pandemic permitting – she will be able to interrail across Europe taking photos for her studies and visiting international art galleries.
She added: “Mike Davies seems like such a fantastic person to know and learn from, and the funding is a good way to invest in equipment and experiences that would aid me for years to come.”
Prof Kevin Petrie, head of the School of Art and Design at the university, said: “It was a great privilege to be involved in the selection our new Mike Davies Scholars and see their passion to use creativity to make the world a better place.
"It has also been wonderful to work with Mike on developing a number of life-changing schemes for the benefit of our students at Sunderland.”