Design-Nation and De Montfort University announce strategic partnership to nurture the next generation of UK craft and design talent
Creative businesses, independent makers and emerging designers will benefit from a new strategic partnership between Design-Nation and De Montfort University Leicester (DMU), creating exciting opportunities to connect education with the contemporary craft and design sector.
The partnership brings together Design-Nation’s vibrant network of professional makers and designers with DMU’s internationally recognised School of Design Innovation, creating new opportunities for collaboration between students, academics and creative practitioners while strengthening links between higher education and industry.
The announcement comes on the eve of New Designers, the UK’s biggest showcase of graduate creative talent, where DMU will present its largest-ever display of work by this year’s graduating students. Design-Nation is proud to support the university’s showcase at the event.
Focused on creativity, innovation and professional practice, the partnership will provide valuable opportunities for Design-Nation members, DMU students, graduates and academics, to learn from one another while developing the skills, knowledge and industry connections needed to thrive in today’s creative sector.
The collaboration is already underway, with Design-Nation members recently visiting DMU to explore the facilities; review final-year student portfolios and offer professional feedback and industry insight; and presenting Graduate Awards at the University’s Degree Show.
Future plans include:
- specialist Continuing Professional Development (CPD) opportunities for Design-Nation members
- access to DMU’s specialist workshops and facilities for practising makers and designers to develop new skills and creative techniques
- a Maker-in-Residence programme
- guest lectures, mentoring and portfolio reviews
- live industry projects and creative collaborations
- exhibitions, showcase events and research partnerships
- employability and professional development initiatives
Both organisations have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), providing a framework to work together over the coming years.
Clare Edwards, Director of Design-Nation, said:
“Design-Nation is passionate about supporting creative talent and building meaningful connections across the craft and design sector. We’re thrilled to be partnering with De Montfort University to create new opportunities for students, graduates and our members, while helping shape the future of contemporary craft and design practice.
By bringing together education and professional practice, we can create inspiring opportunities for collaboration, innovation and knowledge exchange that benefit students, makers, designers and the wider creative sector.”
Stuart Lawson, Deputy Head of the School of Design Innovation at De Montfort University, said:
“We are delighted to formally establish this partnership with Design-Nation. There is a strong shared ambition to nurture creative talent, encourage innovation and create impactful opportunities for students and practitioners. We look forward to developing an exciting programme of collaborative activity together.”
