THE artists and designers of the future will present their work on Truro’s Lemon Quay for a five-day exhibition starting next Tuesday.

The 17th annual art and design exhibition hosted by Truro College, Making Your Mark will be the first time many of the students have displayed their work publicly. It is the only occasion to bring together work across all age ranges and levels, including 16 to 18, University Centre and adult learners.

A giant marquee in the heart of the city will showcase the broad creative choice offered by the college’s art and design department, including fashion, graphic design, silversmithing and jewellery, fine art, ceramics, 3D design, textiles, printmaking, life drawing and animation.

The exhibition will be open to the public, and entry is free. Students have produced postcards of their artwork and will be taking voluntary donations for the Invictus Trust, a Cornish charity that provides support to teenagers who may be suffering from poor mental health and associated issues. 

A private view and award ceremony supported by local businesses and organisations will be held next Wednesday evening to celebrate the students’ achievements, both in terms of the quality of their work and their successful futures, with many already securing places at university or work within the industry.

Programme team leader Mark Dunford said: “Art and design can make a mark on all of our lives as it gives beauty, provokes thought, provides useful design and the advancement of ideas and capabilities.

“Visitors of all ages will be uplifted by the quality of ideas, invention and diversity and it will provide an insight into the marks made by students as they prepare for their futures. 

Making Your Mark will be open to the public from 11am to 5.30pm on Tuesday, May 21; from 9am to 5.30pm from May 22 to 24; and from 9am to 4pm on Saturday, May 24. Staff and students from Truro College will be on hand all week to answer questions about the work and to help those looking to find the right course for them.