Arts University Bournemouth (AUB) is one of the most distinguished creative institutions in the United Kingdom, renowned for its commitment to arts, design, media, and performance education. Established over a century ago, AUB has evolved from a local art school into a leading university dedicated to nurturing creative talent.
This article explores the rich history of Arts University Bournemouth, tracing its development from its inception to its current status as a prestigious institution.
Early Beginnings: Bournemouth Municipal College of Art (1880s–1913)
The origins of Arts University Bournemouth can be traced back to the late 19th century. In the 1880s, Bournemouth, a growing seaside town on the south coast of England, recognized the need for formal art education to support the burgeoning local creative industries. This led to the establishment of the Bournemouth Municipal College of Art in 1885. The college began as a small institution offering courses in fine art, drawing, and design, catering primarily to local students.
The college quickly gained a reputation for excellence in art education, attracting students and staff who were passionate about the arts. Its location in Bournemouth, with its vibrant cultural scene and picturesque surroundings, provided an inspiring environment for creative learning. The college played a crucial role in fostering a community of artists and designers in the region, contributing to the cultural development of Bournemouth.
Expansion and Growth: Bournemouth and Poole College of Art and Design (1913–1980s)
Throughout the early 20th century, the college continued to grow and expand its offerings. In 1913, it moved to new premises on the Lansdowne Campus, which would become its home for many decades. The move allowed the college to increase its capacity and introduce new programs in various artistic disciplines, including graphic design, illustration, and photography.
The 1920s and 1930s saw further expansion of the college’s curriculum, with the introduction of courses in sculpture, ceramics, and fashion. These additions reflected the changing landscape of art and design education, as new forms of creative expression emerged. The college was renamed Bournemouth College of Art in 1940, reflecting its broader scope and its commitment to providing a comprehensive education in the arts.
In the post-war period, the college experienced significant growth, both in terms of student numbers and academic offerings. The 1960s and 1970s were particularly transformative, as the college became part of the Bournemouth and Poole College of Art and Design. This merger allowed the institution to further expand its facilities and programs, establishing itself as a leading center for art and design education in the region.
Becoming Arts Institute at Bournemouth (1990–2000s)
The late 20th century brought about significant changes in higher education in the UK, and Bournemouth’s art college was no exception. In 1993, following the Further and Higher Education Act, the college gained independence from local authority control and was rebranded as the Arts Institute at Bournemouth. This change marked the beginning of a new era for the institution, as it sought to position itself as a specialist provider of higher education in the arts.
The Arts Institute at Bournemouth focused on developing its higher education programs, offering undergraduate and postgraduate degrees in a wide range of creative disciplines. The institution’s reputation grew both nationally and internationally, attracting students from across the globe who were drawn to its innovative approach to arts education.
During this period, the institute invested heavily in its facilities, developing state-of-the-art studios, workshops, and performance spaces to support its growing student body. The emphasis on practical, hands-on learning became a hallmark of the institution, with students encouraged to experiment, take risks, and push the boundaries of their creativity.
Achieving University Status: Arts University College at Bournemouth (2009–2013)
The early 21st century saw the Arts Institute at Bournemouth continue to thrive, with increasing recognition of its academic excellence and industry connections. In 2009, the institution was granted taught degree-awarding powers and became known as the Arts University College at Bournemouth (AUCB). This new status reflected its growing importance as a provider of higher education in the arts and design.
As a university college, AUCB expanded its academic offerings, introducing new degree programs and research opportunities. The institution also strengthened its ties with industry, ensuring that its graduates were well-prepared for careers in the creative industries. AUCB’s emphasis on employability and professional development became a key aspect of its educational philosophy.
Becoming Arts University Bournemouth (2013–Present)
In 2013, AUCB achieved full university status and was rebranded as Arts University Bournemouth (AUB). This milestone marked the culmination of decades of growth and development, solidifying AUB’s position as one of the UK’s leading creative universities. As AUB, the institution continued to build on its strong foundations, offering a diverse range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs in the arts, design, media, and performance.
AUB’s campus has undergone significant development in recent years, with the addition of new facilities such as the Bournemouth Film School, the Drawing Studio designed by renowned architect Sir Peter Cook, and the Innovation Studio, which supports research and enterprise activities. The university’s commitment to sustainability and innovation is evident in its campus design and its approach to teaching and learning.
Today, AUB is recognized as a center of excellence in creative education, with a strong emphasis on collaboration, experimentation, and industry engagement. The university’s graduates are known for their creativity, technical skills, and ability to adapt to the demands of the rapidly changing creative industries.
Conclusion
The history of Arts University Bournemouth is a story of growth, transformation, and dedication to the arts. From its humble beginnings as a local art school to its current status as a leading creative university, AUB has consistently adapted to the evolving needs of its students and the creative industries. With a rich heritage, state-of-the-art facilities, and a commitment to nurturing the next generation of creative talent, AUB continues to play a vital role in shaping the future of the arts in the UK and beyond. As it looks to the future, Arts University Bournemouth remains dedicated to providing an inspiring, innovative, and supportive environment for students to explore their creativity and achieve their full potential.
Source: Collegesintheuk.com