Comedian Johnny Vegas and Knowsley Mayor and Mayoress Cllr Ken McGlashan and Cllr Anne McGlashan were special guests on Monday 19 May at the University Centre’s end-of-year degree exhibition, SHOW 25.
SHOW 25 celebrates the achievements of final year degree students with a showcase of creative work from BA (Hons) Game Art, BA (Hons) Graphic Design, BA (Hons) Fine Art Painting, and FdSc Media Production.
The exhibition is a fantastic opportunity for potential employers, friends, family, industry, and members of the public to see exciting creations by the next generation of artists, designers, creators, and makers from St Helens. It is also part of the Independents Biennial, showcasing the vibrant art scene of the Liverpool City Region.
Former St Helens College student and Middlesex Art and Ceramics graduate, Johnny Vegas, has reignited his passion for creating art and has received acclaim for the recent public exhibition of his work at The World of Glass in St Helens. His support for local artists is unwavering, so much so that Johnny made sure to take time out from recording his new TV series, Little Shop of Antiques, to support St Helens students. He said:
“The artworks produced by St Helens students are exceptional! It is exciting to see our town producing such creative talent. Walking around the exhibition I feel totally immersed and excited about our growing artistic community and want to support it any way I can.”
Jenny Raynes studied BA (Hons) in Fine Art Painting said:
“Walking is essential to my creative process. It helps me slow down and notice details that I might usually overlook. When I paint, my goal is to convey the sensory experience of being in a space rather than just represent it.”
Pauline Strong, studied BA Hons Fine Art Painting said:
“I am interested in drapery painting because I have always adored satin, silk, velvet, and faux-fur fabrics. These fabrics evoke an irresistible sense of luxury and sensuality. My intention is to depict these fabrics realistically, which requires patience and meticulous attention to detail.”
Kayleigh Fowler studied BA Hons Graphic Design said:
“I was inspired to explore expressive artists and activities that focus less on outcomes and more on the creative journey. What I discovered throughout this project is that true creativity isn’t about the final result – it’s about the freedom to play, explore, and make something that is uniquely your own, without fear or judgment.”
Ian Greenall, Head of Creative and Performing Arts at University Centre St Helens, said:
“Our SHOW 25 displays the huge talent and skills that our students have developed and perfected at University Centre St Helens. “We are very proud of our soon-to-be-graduates, and we wish them all the greatest success as they prepare to move into careers in a wide range of creative industries. I hope people visit the show and experience this wonderful exhibition for themselves.”
Mark Simmonds, Creative and Performing Arts lecturer presented his students with certificates, individual graphic design pins, and three notes of advice:
- “Look out for each other”
- “To be creative is a blessing and a joy.”
- “Be so good that they can’t ignore you.”
He added one final note to all, “don’t forget us!”
In keeping with the community spirit of the event, catering at the launch of SHOW 25 was provided by Café Laziz, St Helen’s ESOL project which teaches English to asylum seekers and runs a weekly café serving world food. Volunteers served coffee and Syrian delicacies.
SHOW 25 is being held at the Street and a Half, Haydock Street, WA10 1DD from Monday 19th May – Friday 13th June. (Opening Hours: 11AM – 3PM (Weekdays).
