STUDENTS from three creative courses at a York college are partnering with one of the city's most cherished cultural institutions for a degree project.
York College & University Centre BA first years studying creative practice, fashion and graphics teamed up with York Museum Gardens as part of a module which requires them to work with a real "client", which on most occasions is a York organisation.
This year they are working with the landmark site in Museum Street.
Creative Practise award leader Charlotte Dawson said: "The module considers all aspects of the gardens including its history, the environmental factors and how the space is used to relax and promote wellbeing."
Staff and students first met garden manager Steve Williams in February when his team had just begun the construction work on the Japanese Garden to the rear of York Art Gallery to coincide with the Making Waves: The Art of Japanese Woodblock Print which runs until August 30.
Charlotte said: "He gave the students an in-depth tour and talked about the gardens.
"Each student then chose a specific direction for their project and began to research, explore and experiment with materials.
"The project will result in each of the students producing a final outcome which will be presented to Steve at York College in June."
The group re-united in the Japanese Gardens last Wednesday (March 25) as staff from the college and students walked around the Making Waves exhibition.
Steve Williams said: "It has been a pleasure working with Charlotte and the York College team.
"It's been fantastic to see the Museum Gardens spark such excitement, imagination and creative energy in this talented group of local students as they bring their projects to life."
Charlotte added: "Working with Steve is a pleasure, he shares his passion, knowledge and expertise on the gardens so generously.
"This has encouraged our students to explore directions they may not have otherwise considered.
"As teachers, and artists, ourselves, Monica, Lynn and I appreciate the value of collaboration to enhance creative practice, so it's great that our students get the opportunity to do this in the first year of their degree course.
"It is such a positive thing to build bridges within the wider community, we appreciate having the opportunity to work with such amazing local organisations as York Museums Trust.
"Seeing as this is an annual module we will be seeking other organisations to work with for next year and beyond."
"We are so lucky in the times we live in to have these creative spaces and communities on our doorstep.
"Connecting through the arts seems more important than ever."
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