A Manchester-based eyewear company has been working with students at Clarendon Sixth Form College in Ashton-under-Lyne to inspire the next generation of creative talent through a new design competition.
The Manchester Collection Design Competition invited more than 100 students studying subjects including art, fashion, graphics, photography, animation and media to create original spectacle designs inspired by the city’s culture, heritage and identity. Students were encouraged to explore Manchester’s music, architecture and creative history as part of their concepts.
Over the coming weeks, participants will develop their ideas into finished designs using a mix of hand illustration and digital design tools. A shortlist of entries will be reviewed by representatives from the company, with prizes awarded to the winning designs.
The competition was launched at an event held at the college, where students were able to speak directly with industry professionals and see examples of eyewear designs. The initiative is intended to give young people a practical insight into the creative industries and help them build skills and confidence for future careers.
Ryan Boulton, fashion and textiles course leader at Clarendon Sixth Form College, said the project offered students valuable experience of working to a live brief and understanding how creative ideas can be developed for commercial use.
The collaboration highlights the role local businesses can play in supporting education and helping young people in Tameside explore pathways into creative and design-led careers.