Two Uxbridge College art students have been selected from applicants from across the UK to showcase their work in an annual London exhibition hosted by the prestigious University of the Arts London (UAL).

Isheda Lee, 18, (left) and Cassia Stirzaker, 16, from Level 2 Art and Design are among those chosen to be featured in the Origins Creative Arts Festival from more than 350 applicants nationally.

The festival is held at the Truman Brewery, Brick Lane, London, from 26-28 July and celebrates the work and achievements of students completing UAL awarding body qualifications at centres across the UK at Levels 1, 2, 3 and 4. A range of painting, drawing, sculpture, video and fashion will be exhibited and complemented by a programme of music.

UAL encompasses six London creative arts colleges including the world famous St Martins College, Chelsea College of Arts, and the London College of Fashion.

Isheda, who plans to complete her Art & Design studies to Level 3 at Uxbridge College then go on to university to study fine art, said: “My work was inspired by the ideas of love and the ring. Using the rings I wanted to explore balance and harmony in relationships by using the structure itself to present that. I feel honoured to be involved in such an important show and am looking forward to see what other students from around the country have done. I would like my work to inspire or touch people in some way.”

Cassia, who also wants to study art and design at university, said: “I was inspired by the current situation regarding plastic pollution and interested in how something seemingly harmless, like a plastic bottle, can have such a devastating impact on the environment and the sea life. I am over the moon and feel very honoured, humbled and excited to be involved in such an amazing show.”

Jill Tattersall, Art & Design lecturer, who taught the students, said: “Isheda and Cassia have done fantastically well to be chosen from so many applicants from across the UK to be part of this impressive and prestigious exhibition. Uxbridge College has an excellent record of supporting students to both complete their UAL qualifications to a high level and to go on and study at UAL colleges and on other degree level courses or go into creative jobs nationally. We are extremely proud of Isheda, Cassia and all our creative arts students.”

Ross Anderson, Director, UAL Awarding Body said: “Origins Creative Arts Festival offers students the significant opportunity to exhibit their work. It gives them a moment in time where they can experience what it is like to be an arts professional.”

All students exhibiting at the Creative Arts Festival will have the chance to win a prize at the event’s private view on July 25th.

Origins Creative Arts Festival will be open to the public at 91 Brick Lane, London E1 6QL, as follows: 26 July, 10:30am - 5pm 27 July, 10:30am - 5pm 28 July, 11am - 4pm