Illustration Students Collaborate with National Trust on Live Industry Brief

Second-year Foundation Degree Illustration learners have gained invaluable professional experience through an exciting live brief delivered in partnership with the National Trust.

As part of their final module, learners worked with Tredegar House on a real-world illustration project supporting the property’s family Easter trail. The brief was provided by Anna from the Visitor Experience team at Tredegar House and developed further by teaching staff to ensure alignment with the module’s learning outcomes.

Learners were tasked with producing a comprehensive body of work, including 13 character illustrations, colouring pages, a promotional poster and a trail map. The project’s concept focused on two present-day gardeners discovering a time capsule, which releases historical members of the house’s family. Each character had to be historically accurate, dressed in period clothing and depicted engaging in activities they were known for.

From the outset, learners were aware that selected artwork would be used by Tredegar House for this year’s Easter event and retained for up to three years, offering an authentic insight into professional illustration practice.

Following selection, one winning student, Kaisha, was chosen, with her illustrations forming part of the Easter programme for the next three years. Anna from Tredegar House praised the standard of work produced, saying:

“We are absolutely delighted to be able to use Kaisha’s work. It is a wonderful reflection of the quality and suitability of her illustrations. We are incredibly grateful to all the students for their hard work and creativity – it has been a real pleasure to work with them.”

All learners involved will receive an Acorn Pass, allowing complimentary entry to Tredegar House, while Kaisha has also been awarded a General Manager’s Pass in recognition of her achievement. Special thanks were also given to course lecturer Angelina for establishing what the National Trust hopes will be a lasting partnership.