Posted: 30 June 2025
University Campus Doncaster (UCDon) proudly unveiled its much-anticipated Degree Show 2025 on Thursday, 19th June, spotlighting the extraordinary creativity and innovation of its final-year students. This vibrant end-of-year exhibition showcases an impressive array of work spanning diverse creative disciplines, including Fine Art and Craft, Illustration & Concept Art and Graphic Design.
Far more than a simple academic milestone, the Degree Show acts as a dynamic platform where UCDon’s emerging talent can confidently present their work and step into their future careers. As Fine Art and Craft Programme Leader Andrea Sutton explained, “The Degree Show is the highlight of our academic year. It allows our students to share their unique voices with the public, industry professionals, and their support networks. It’s a moment of celebration, reflection and inspiration.”
The exhibition’s opening night drew a lively crowd of family, friends, alumni, and members of Doncaster’s thriving arts community. Guests eagerly explored the student work and connected with new talent. For many, it was the first opportunity to present months of hard work to those who had supported them along the way.
Reflecting this sentiment, graduating Fine Art and Craft student Yasmin said, “Having family and friends here to see what we’ve worked on for months means everything. The show feels like the perfect way to close this chapter and begin the next.”
The works on display ranged from thought-provoking installations and innovative fashion collections to interactive media projects, all embodying years of research, skill development, and self-expression. Simon Gomes, Programme Leader for BA (Hons) Graphic Design: Branding, Promotion, and Digital Design, highlighted the impressive scope of the show: “From campaign identities and packaging to interactive digital experiences, the work demonstrates how our students have developed their voices as contemporary designers. Each project reflects both personal passions and professional ambitions. We’re incredibly proud of the diverse and dynamic work on show.”
Similarly, James Steel, Lecturer for BA (Hons) and FdA Illustration & Concept Art, praised the students’ storytelling and creative skills: “Our programme is proud to showcase the creativity, skill, and storytelling of our students. They are crafting the visual narratives of tomorrow, whether in children’s books, comic books, video games, or animation.”
Local creative industry professionals attending the event were equally impressed. One alumnus commented, “I’m genuinely impressed by the standard of work. These students are entering the field with vision, confidence, and a strong foundation. It’s exciting to see that the future of Doncaster’s creative industries looks bright.”
The Degree Show also serves as a crucial springboard into professional life, providing graduates a valuable platform to connect with potential employers, collaborators, and mentors. Deputy Head: School of Engineering, Science, Technology and Arts (CADI) Nigel Pease reflected on the students’ journey, saying, “We couldn’t be prouder of how far they’ve come. We’ve witnessed these students grow immensely, not just in technical skill, but also in confidence, professionalism, and creative ambition,” he said. “This exhibition is a powerful testament to their resilience, dedication and passion. It’s inspiring to see how they’ve embraced every opportunity to push boundaries and develop their unique creative voices.”
Open to the public until the end of June, the exhibition invited everyone to explore the exciting future of creative practice and support the next generation of artists, designers, and makers. For the wider Doncaster community, it was more than just an exhibition but a celebration of local talent and the enduring power of creativity to inspire and connect.
