Teesside University invites the public to ‘Reframe’ creativity at 2026 Degree Showcase

Teesside University is inviting the public, creative professionals, and future students to explore the next generation of creative talent as its School of Arts & Creative Industries (SACI) launches its end of year Degree Showcase 2026.

Titled Reframe, the showcase takes place from Monday 12 May across various venues on campus and at locations in Middlesbrough and Stockton.

The showcase features a vibrant programme of exhibitions, screenings, live events and performances, celebrating the work of final-year undergraduate and postgraduate students across a wide range of creative disciplines.

The programme opens with a VIP launch event today (Tuesday 12 May) from 5.30–6.00pm at the Deanery in Themis, before audiences are invited to explore exhibitions and events including fashion, photography, graphic design, illustration, fine art, comics, journalism, music, film and television production, and more.

Dr Matt Watson, Dean of the School of Arts & Creative Industries at Teesside University, said: 'Our 2026 Degree Showcase, Reframe, is a powerful celebration of the imagination, ambition, and professional readiness of our graduating students.

'This isn’t just an exhibition of final projects, it’s an invitation to rethink what emerging creative talent looks like, what regional universities produce, and the quality and impact of creativity coming out of Teesside.

'Across exhibitions, screenings and live events, visitors will encounter work that is confident, imaginative and forward-facing, reflecting the diverse practices and perspectives shaping the future of the creative industries. We warmly welcome members of the public, local businesses and creative organisations to attend.

It’s a unique opportunity to connect with future collaborators and discover new voices.'

Highlights from the programme include:

• Afterglow | Photography – 12–19 May
  Zoo Gallery, Hill Street Centre, Middlesbrough
  A striking graduate photography exhibition exploring presence, memory and storytelling.
• The Origin | BA (Hons) Fashion – Tuesday 12 May
  The Crypt, Middlesbrough Town Hall
  The iconic annual runway show showcasing the latest collections from emerging fashion designers, followed by the Fashion Awards.
• Graphic Design & Illustration Degree Shows – 12–15 May
  Athena Building, Teesside University
  A bold and diverse showcase of visual communication, illustration and experimental practice.
• BA (Hons) Fine Art – New Perspectives – 13–23 May
  Waterhouse Building
  Featuring painting, sculpture, printmaking, film and sound, with guided tours on selected dates.
• Comics and Graphic Novels – 12–15 May
  Athena Building
  Showcasing exciting new voices from one of the UK’s longest-running comics courses.
• Film and Television Production – Thursday 14 May
  ARC, Stockton
  Final major project screenings from the University’s next generation of filmmakers.
• Journalism Awards – Thursday 14 May
  Digital Life
  An awards presentation celebrating the best of journalism and sport journalism over the past year.

This isn’t just an exhibition of final projects, it’s an invitation to rethink what emerging creative talent looks like, what regional universities produce, and the quality and impact of creativity coming out of Teesside.

Dr Matt Watson, Dean of the School of Arts & Creative Industries

Many exhibitions are free and open to the public, with no booking required, making the showcase accessible to families, schools and colleges, creative businesses, and anyone with an interest in the arts.

The degree showcase plays a key role in supporting student recruitment, regional engagement and industry collaboration, giving visitors the opportunity to experience the quality of work produced at Teesside University and to meet graduates preparing to enter the creative industries.

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Full event listings, times and venue details

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