Where Global Talent Meets Manchester’s Creative Spirit in the 2024 Creative Summer School

In July 2024, Manchester Metropolitan University welcomed students from international partner institutions to participate in the Faculty of Arts and Humanities Creative Summer School, a dynamic programme designed to promote interdisciplinary learning, encourage collaboration, and provide a truly immersive creative experience.

Now in its second year, the programme brought together students and faculty from the British University of Egypt, Woxsen University in India, and Manchester Met, uniting them in a shared journey of artistic exploration. Over two weeks, participants engaged in hands-on workshops, inspiring lectures, and cultural excursions, drawing creativity from the rich artistic heritage of Manchester, a city renowned for its innovation, industry, and culture.

An Immersive Creative Experience

The Creative Summer School is a carefully curated programme that introduces students to the dynamic creative environment of Manchester Met. Through workshops, lectures, and city-wide tours, participants gain an authentic insight into studying at the Manchester School of Art, the School of Digital Arts (SODA), and the Manchester Fashion Institute (MFI). More than just an educational experience, the summer school promotes cross-cultural exchange, allowing students to forge global connections, enhance their teamwork and communication skills, and develop the confidence needed to thrive in creative industries.

Exploring Manchester Through Art and Design

The first week of the programme was packed with introductions to various university departments and a diverse range of creative workshops. Students explored design thinking, photography, drawing, silk-screen printing, and art games, guided by expert academics and practitioners. These on-campus sessions were complemented by visits to Manchester’s historic cultural landmarks, including the Northern Quarter, Manchester Craft and Design Centre, and the iconic John Rylands Library. To experience the city’s modern creative hubs, students also explored MediaCityUK and witnessed first-hand Manchester’s fast-evolving skyline.

In the second week, the focus remained on blending cultural discovery with hands-on creative practice. Highlights included a street photography workshop, a print-making session, and an exclusive curation masterclass that took students through some of Manchester’s most exciting contemporary art spaces. The summer school also provided networking opportunities beyond the arts, with a social event in collaboration with the Faculty of Science and Engineering’s Summer School, allowing students to meet and connect with other international visitors.

To round off the experience, students embarked on a visit to the Etihad Stadium, followed by a day trip to Liverpool’s Formby Beach, where they explored Antony Gormley’s ‘Another Place’ installation before enjoying a quintessentially British experience—fish and chips by the seaside.

A Celebration of Creativity and Cultural Exchange

Reflecting on the summer school experience, Inayat, a student from Woxsen University, shared:

“Throughout the experience, Manchester’s rich history, street art, and diverse food scene were a cultural treat. Meeting students from The British University in Egypt and students from China made the experience even better, fostering some great cross-cultural friendships… It was a perfect blend of creative growth, culture, and friendship!”

As the Creative Summer School 2024 draws to a close, the impact of the experience will no doubt continue to resonate with its participants. The programme not only showcases the world-class education and facilities at Manchester Met but also highlights the university’s commitment to nurturing global talent and fostering a collaborative, creative future.