I am very fortunate to be able to spend time with some of the most dynamic people in exceptional places across Dorset and the south coast. Running this business for 18 years I look back at the many privileged moments I’ve had, being involved in exciting schemes which change their environment and inspired by the visionaries who instigate them.
This was one of those memorable and exceptional weeks where you know you’ve struck gold; Arts University Bournemouth was launching its wonderful and unique new Drawing Studio which we helped to secure some funding for last year.
The night before the official launch event I was invited to join Principal Stuart Bartholomew and his special guests to a performance of Stravinsky’s Firebird (amongst other pieces) by the wonderful Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra at Lighthouse, Poole. With the dignitaries in town for the launch, we were seated amongst the great and good of arts and architecture. The BSO and the many forms of Bournemouth Arts School, now AUB, has a longstanding relationship and it is currently as strong as it has ever been.
I always feel a recharge of creative energy whenever I see the BSO perform…this talent hosted in our town is exceptional and I have pledged to go more regularly…..not only to keep me fully charged creatively but to support this really important organisation in challenging times for the arts. I was reassured to see the auditorium almost full with significant numbers and can only hope that is a regular thing. I immensely enjoyed their recent ‘Heroes and Aliens’ concert too featuring soundtrack pieces from Star Wars, Avatar, ET and more. These evenings are legendary, sell out every time and it’s great to see such a rich cross-section of the community enjoying this incredible and emotive music. It’s the harp that gets me every time; brings a lump to my throat!
The next day was the big launch of the Drawing Studio and further treats were in store…..a specially commissioned piece by the BSO performed by an ensemble to mark the occasion watched by key stakeholders and those instrumental in creating this incredible building. The acoustics were perfect and the performance sealed the space in a very special way indeed. I envy the students who will be using this fresh place to develop their skills. The building’s natural light and smooth curved lines have been designed by Professor Sir Peter Cook RA; in fact it’s the only building in the UK to have been designed by the guru who is an Alumnus of AUB.
Special guest, and another major name in architecture, Dame Zaha Hadid formally opened the new studio. A coup for the University to attract yet another beacon of excellence, Zaha ended her speech with “I simply love this building”……high powered endorsement indeed.
Such moments give me a creative injection which is empowering and uplifting. I loved every minute of both experiences and hope that everyone passing through the new studio’s doors feels the same level of excitement and energy as I have this week.
Next time you’re in the area of BU and AUB, look out for the bright blue ‘friendly alien’ fondly named by its creator…..you won’t forget it in a hurry.