Students Develop Branding Concepts for Council’s New Creative Initiative

Date - 3rd April 2024

Digital Arts & Games students collaborate with Bolsover District Council to shape the identity of a future creative hub.

A Real-World Branding Challenge for Emerging Creatives

Level 3 Digital Arts and Games Design students at West Nottinghamshire College have been working on an exciting live brief set by Bolsover District Council, creating branding concepts for a proposed new creative hub.

Therasa Garrod, the council’s tourism and place manager, and Ellis Green from the business development team visited the college to review the students’ progress — and were impressed by the professionalism and variety of ideas produced.

Designing for a Future Creative Space

At the end of 2023, students were tasked with developing a full set of branding proposals that could be used both online and on merchandise. Their job was to create a fresh, engaging identity that would help shape how the future hub is seen by the public.

The students responded with a diverse range of styles and concepts, including the proposed brand name “Magnificent Makers.” Their designs showcased creativity, marketing thinking and an understanding of what a modern creative space could represent.

Therasa praised the group’s work:

“The students have created some sleek and professional designs as well as come up with a branding name – Magnificent Makers. They met our brief very well, and we’ll be sharing their concepts at future events to involve other stakeholders and gather feedback.”

Opportunity to Work Like Real Designers

This live brief offered students a valuable chance to experience professional expectations — including working to deadlines, managing their own time and receiving feedback from real clients both in person and online.

Digital arts and games design tutor Brian Wilson highlighted the importance of the project:

“The students have approached the project brilliantly and it’s a great opportunity for them in their first year of the course. I’m really proud of them, and it will be great to see this project come to fruition later this year so they can see their designs in action and build their portfolios and confidence.”

Supporting Creativity Across the District

Bolsover District Council is currently completing a feasibility study for the new creative hub, supported by an Arts Council England Creative Development Fund (CDF) application. The aim is to establish a space where artists, young people and local businesses can collaborate, learn and grow.

Students’ branding work will help shape how the hub is presented to the community, offering a sense of identity and professionalism from the very beginning.

A Showcase of Talent

The designs displayed ranged from minimalist monogram logos to bold digital illustrations — with every student bringing their own creative flair. Among them was Michelle Carr, who presented a series of vibrant, colourful concepts that impressed visitors.

This collaboration not only highlights the talent within the college, but also demonstrates how real industry partnerships can empower students, strengthen their portfolios and prepare them for future creative careers.

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