Northern Ireland’s largest independent law firm Carson McDowell is proud to announce a two-year partnership with Ulster University’s Belfast School of Art, to support their Annual Degree Show and showcase the outstanding work of the talented artists and creatives.

A significant annual event in Northern Ireland’s arts calendar, the Annual Degree Show will return for 2023, opening to the public on Friday 9 June on Ulster University Belfast campus, York Street and is free of charge to visit. Presenting original artwork created by Final Year and Masters level students across the School’s Art and Design courses visitors will see Fine Art, Illustration, Graphic Design, Photography and Video, Product Design, Silversmithing, Ceramics, Textiles and Fashion exhibit alongside more contemporary forms such as Animation, Games Design, User Experience and Service Design.

Ranked in the Top 10 for Arts & Design in the Times Good University Guide 2022, the Belfast School of Art plays a central role in the cultural and creative life of the region and makes a significant contribution to contemporary art and design both at home and abroad.

Neasa Quigley, Senior Partner, Carson McDowell stated:

"We are delighted, post-pandemic, to be reigniting a partnership that began in 2012 and to continue to showcase the world-class talent and skill of our creative students. There is a great synergy between the history and values of our organisations, for example Carson McDowell was established in 1852, only three years after the Belfast School of Art, and so we also have a considerable amount of heritage yet are passionate about crafting a modern, dynamic, progressive and independent local law firm that thinks creatively to bring quality solutions to our clients.

The Arts and Creative Industries is a hugely important growth sector in Northern Ireland that is already recognised on the global stage. By supporting the Ulster University Belfast School of Art Annual Degree Shows we believe we are investing in our shared future, as the successful career development of these individual artists and creatives will generate additional social and economic benefits for the region through the development of innovative concepts, ideas, knowledge and networks."

“The Belfast School of Art is delighted to enter this renewed partnership with Carson McDowell which feeds into a series of exciting recent developments for the School. For example, last year saw alumni and PhD researchers win the Turner Prize as members of the Array Collective and, through our contributions to the Ulster Screen Academy, we continue to lead on creative industries growth within the region. We are also very proud to be launching a bespoke School brand this summer, further establishing our presence on the global stage.

Collectively, all of this builds on an esteemed legacy, stretching back to 1849. Indeed, some of the most celebrated artists on the island having such as Paul Henry having previously been studied here historically. Carson McDowell’s partnership will allow us to continue support emergent artists and designers to make their mark, shaping culture and driving positive social change both locally and around the world.”