In 2023, five young art and design students were handed the opportunity of a lifetime, to work with one of the world’s most creative minds and take their studies to the next level.
This cohort of Mike Davies Scholars had the exciting opportunity to visit London as part of their scholarship experience. The group immersed themselves in the city’s rich cultural landscape, exploring the Tate Modern’s latest exhibition, Electric Dreams, and Medieval Women at the British Library.
A highlight of the trip was their meeting with esteemed architect and Honorary Graduate, Mike Davies CBE. Mike is an internationally renowned architect with 40 years of involvement in projects such as the Pompidou Centre in Paris, Lloyd’s of London, the Millennium Dome and Heathrow Terminal 5. Mike is famed for his unique approach to urban design using the latest in technology, scientific research development, and for his distinctive red clothing.
During their visit to his office at the iconic Leadenhall Building, the scholars presented their work, receiving valuable feedback and encouragement. Mike also shared insights into his career and the evolution of his company, offering an inspiring perspective on the industry.
This year’s talented scholars include:
- William Mason (BA Graphic Design)
- Sophie Sweeney (BA Artist Designer Maker: Glass and Ceramics)
- Aimee Smith (BA Fashion Design and Promotion)
- Ella MacDougall (BA Animation and Games Art)
This year’s gathering had an international dimension, with Aimee Smith joining the session remotely from Tashkent, where she is undertook a placement at the Management Development Institute of Singapore in Tashkent (MDIS), a University of Sunderland-approved partner.
Adding to the experience, Mike Davies led the group on a special tour of the British Museum, where he shared personal insights into some of his favourite pieces from the collection.
Aimee reflected on the mentoring she received from Mike: "Getting to talk to Mike and receive mentoring from him, really helps me in my studies. He tells me what is good about my work, gives strong feedback, and also helps me to think about my next steps.
“Before the scholarship, I would often feel a bit lost on where I was going in my work but receiving mentoring and having someone to talk to, who has so much experience in the ‘arts’, really pushes me to think about what direction I want to go in with my work and gives me somebody to discuss my ideas with. This experience has also helped me gain a lot of confidence in my work and also presenting it to others.”
William Mason, one of the current scholars, also reflected on the impact of the scholarship. ““The Mike Davies Scholarship created a great opportunity for me to grow as a student, and as a person. I originally applied for the scholarship for the financial side but found that the financial gain was the smallest part of the experience.
"The meetings with Mike and the other scholars boosted my own abilities, and viewing my peer's work enhanced my own. To join a scholarship that offers a great amount of support to students is the greatest part of the experience, and I would love to continue it for more years if I could."
The Mike Davies Scholarship is one of many opportunities made possible through the generosity of our friends, alumni, and supporters. Every two years, Mike sponsors up to five scholars, providing each with a £1,500 bursary per year of study along with invaluable career mentorship and support.
Kevin Petrie, Professor of Creative Practice:
"Scholarships like the Mike Davies Scholarship are instrumental in opening doors for our students, providing them with essential financial support and invaluable industry insight. Promoting the rich variety of careers available within the arts is crucial, ensuring students can pursue their passions with confidence. It has also been wonderful to work with Mike on developing a number of life-changing schemes for the benefit of our students at Sunderland.”