Green Gown Awards 2020 - University of Salford - Finalist

Extinction Rebellion Takeover - Creatives prove that change can happen

In November 2019, the University of Salford and Design Manchester joined forces with Extinction Rebellion’s Art Group for a day of debates and practical workshops, focusing on environmental topics and how creative thinkers can make a difference. 

Students from eight universities took over Salford’s New Adelphi building to respond to the creative brief set by Extinction Rebellion Art Group - encouraging students to realise that they can ‘own their futures’ and influence change through their intelligent and inventive design responses to climate issues. Participants had the opportunity to hear from and debate with key members of the XR Art Group, discussing what the future holds for the next generation of graduates. Students created exciting responses through a series of inspirational activities and hands-on collaborations with their peers, guided by a host of creative professionals.  

The day culminated in a vibrant exhibition on a huge stage set curated by Glastonbury Festival Shangri-La Creative Director Kaye Dunnings, spotlighting their message loud and clear through a prolific amount of work. 

Top 3 learnings:

1. Our community, peers and wider industry consider the issues raised to be of utmost importance to the next generation of creatives. 
2. Through extra-curricular collaboration, students can feel inspired and empowered to use creativity for change.  
3. One event can have a lasting and huge impact on our entire engagement and enterprise strategy. 

Photo credit Sebastian Matthes / Design Manchester

Videos

• Video #1 (click to hide)