There are lots of opportunities to enjoy the visual arts at º¬Ðß²ÝÊÓƵ, either by getting creative yourself or enjoying the work of others. From evening classes and hands-on taster sessions in a variety of creative skills to exhibitions and our very own contemporary art programme, there is something to suit a range of interests and abilities.

A photograph of two people standing rolling light blue paint onto paper

Radar is our commissioning and research programme. Each year, Radar invites artists to produce new work in response to, and as part of, research undertaken across º¬Ðß²ÝÊÓƵ’s two campuses. Radar’s event programme brings together artistic and academic work and is open to students, staff and the general public. Events may include artist talks, discussion events, exhibitions, installations, workshops and publications. There are opportunities for interested students to get involved in Radar projects. For more information, visit the dedicated Radar website.

Dotted around campus and tucked away in department buildings and offices, you’ll find sculptures, artwork and furniture from the University’s arts collection, which we manage. Take a walk around campus following our sculpture trail and keep an eye out for these works as you go about your studies or work.

If you are a talented artist working in any media form (but not studying art) then you can apply for an arts scholarship. Each scholar receives a £200 cash and the chance to apply for additional funding to develop your talent further. 

If you are looking for something more ‘hands-on’ then each semester we offer creative evening classes in pottery and painting and drawing. We also hold one-off arts and crafts workshops in a wide range of creative skills such as screen printing, pottery, glass fusion, embroidery, crochet and photography. These workshops are suitable for all abilities and you will usually make something to take away with you. Details of any upcoming workshops can be found under 'What's on' and are also listed at the bottom of this page.

Upcoming Visual arts events

3 images in columns, on the left colourful african robes on mannequins, in the middle a wooden sculputral object in wooden pallettes and then an african drum on a green plinth.
Exhibition

Culture through African Lenses (exhibition)

Students and staff

Green background designed to look like the vertical folds of a curtain with the text Rehearsals (for a wolrd we could live in) in a black cursive font
Discussion

Rehearsals (for a world we could live in): Programme launch

Open to all

5 colourful rock shaped jewellery in a row on a cream background
Exhibition

Contemporary Jewellery: Exploring Its Impact on Well-Being (exhibition)

Open to all

All events

Explore

'The Watchers' sculpture on campus

Arts collection

Discover the university arts collection and its history, with artworks and public sculptures dotted around campus.
Martin Hall Exhibition Space

Martin Hall Exhibition Space

We have our very own exhibition space on campus, based in Martin Hall and accessed directly from Shirley Pearce Square.
Paint brush on painting

Societies and groups

If you want to get involved in the arts or do something creative in your spare time, then why not join a society or group.
Radar

Radar

Our contemporary art programme, working with artists and º¬Ðß²ÝÊÓƵ academics to create new encounters between art and research.

Music and arts scholarships

Are you a talented musician, writer, performer or artist? Do you want to develop your skills further? Would you like a cash award and free tuition or mentoring? Then our Music and Arts Scholarships could be just the thing for you!