CMYUK has launched an internship programme called Creatives in Residence Live.
Open to young people registered on the Government’s Kickstart scheme, CIRL will give two young surface designers and one videographer the chance to undertake a six-month placement at CMYUK’s digital training and demonstration facility in Shrewsbury.
The CIRL curriculum - consisting of monthly modules - has been written by textile designer Debbie McKeegan, founder of TexIntel and textile ambassador for Fespa. The initiative is supported by Epson, Canon, Mimaki, EFI, Klieverik and Kongsberg, and a number of industry mentors including Adobe, Aquario, Standfast and Barracks, and The Pattern Room. More collaboration is expected across the production workflow as the project takes shape.
“The curriculum I have originated delivers creatives a comprehensive, practical insight into real world digital production and commercialisation. The calibre of mentors and industry experts that have signed up to assist these young people is significant, presenting an opportunity of a lifetime. Texintel is also CMYUK’s promotional media partner for the event - all modules and content will be available online as this exciting learning experience unfolds,” said McKeegan.
The designers on the new programme will develop their creative talents through practical applications and insights from industry experts. The chosen videographer will capture these ventures through a vlog, producing a multi-platform, social media story for the décor, fashion, design and print communities. There will be a final showcase at the end of the placement period, where everyone involved will come together to celebrate the achievements of the creatives in residence.
All design briefs will be made available online so that design students worldwide can participate. A monthly competition for each brief will be set, with winning entries evaluated by leading industry luminaries and showcased throughout.
“Creatives in Residence Live is a stimulating project that has scaled-up the Kickstart scheme into an exciting springboard opportunity with global industry exposure,” said Robin East, sales and marketing director, CMYUK.
“We were determined to create something inspirational that could benefit as many young people as possible, which ignited the live interactive ‘fly-on-the-wall’ aspect. It’s also been truly uplifting to witness the genuine enthusiasm from industry mentors and sponsors who have already signed up. The programme starts on 5 September and we are very excited to watch it unfold.”