The firm’s clients, business partners, colleagues and friends last week joined seven well-known names and faces from across the creative arts sector at the preview of the anniversary degree show.

The seven individuals, who have been named as BSoA ambassadors by globally renowned artist and Ulster University’s chancellor Dr Colin Davidson, are:

• award-winning artist, author, and activist Oliver Jeffers;
• Oscar and BAFTA-nominated animator, illustrator, cartoonist, producer and director, Paul Young, CEO of Carton Saloon;
• award-winning fashion and embroidery designer, Niamh McCarthy;
• one of Ireland’s leading contemporary artists, Alice Maher;
• celebrated curator and Creative Director of the MAC, Hugh Mulholland;
• acclaimed product designer, Stephen McGilloway; and
• renowned textile artist, Irene MacWilliam.

The Belfast School of Art at Ulster University has been at the forefront of innovation and design since 1849. It is the oldest provider of design education on the island of Ireland as well as the second oldest School of Art. With a legacy spanning 175 years, the school has nurtured generations of artists and designers, fostering creativity, innovation, and excellence.

Carson McDowell has supported the Ulster University Belfast School of Art annual degree show for over a decade.

Neasa Quigley, senior partner at Carson McDowell, said: “It is a very exciting year to be associated with the Belfast School of Art, which celebrates being at the forefront of design and the development of young artists since 1849.

“Both Carson McDowell and Ulster University have deep roots in Belfast, and we are each fully committed to helping our people, clients, stakeholders and communities to thrive. We are very proud to have worked with Ulster University and partnered with the Belfast School of Art Annual Degree Show for over a decade.

“This collaboration has allowed us to support exceptional artists and creative talent whose groundbreaking ideas, concepts, and expertise bring social and economic benefits to the region as well as making a significant global impact.”