The Winter’s Tale Reimagined by Young Artists!

Don’t miss this incredible opportunity to witness the next generation of artistic talent as East Sussex College Lewes students showcase their work for this year’s prestigious Royal Ballet & Opera Design Challenge exhibition.

Running from Tuesday 18th March to Sunday 23rd March at the Star Brewery Gallery, this free exhibition, entitled ‘Gaze in Time’, is an unmissable celebration of creativity, innovation, and passion.

Showcasing the work of the college’s gifted Art & Design Extended Diploma students, the ‘Gaze in Time’ exhibition features stunning submissions in Marketing Strategy & Design, Costume Design, Hair, Wigs & Make-Up, and Set Design – all inspired by The Royal Ballet’s modern, breathtaking production of The Winter’s Tale.

The Royal Ballet & Opera Design Challenge is one of the most exciting creative competitions in the country, with nearly 50 schools and colleges participating each year. This is a rare chance to see young talent responding to live briefs, working to industry standards, and creating imaginative, high-quality work that could grace the stage of one of the world’s most prestigious arts institutions.

East Sussex College, Lewes has built a formidable reputation in this competition, consistently winning awards and commendations for its students’ outstanding work. With at least one winner in the past decade across the five competition categories, the college continues to nurture some of the brightest emerging artists in the country.

Visitors to the exhibition will not only get to admire the impressive creativity on display but will also have the chance to make their voices heard! The public is invited to vote for their favourite pieces, with the "Best in Show" winner receiving a special private viewing on Sunday 23rd March before the exhibition reopens to all.

James DiBiase, Art & Design Lecturer at East Sussex College, said, “Gaze in Time, this year's response to the Royal Ballet & Opera Design Challenge, is being shown at the beloved Star Brewery Gallery, Lewes. It provides an invaluable opportunity for Art & Design Extended Diploma students from Lewes to showcase their talents beyond the four walls of their art room and on a national stage.

“They have all responded to Christopher Wheeldon’s ballet The Winter’s Tale with intensity, innovation and artistry. As this annual competition grows increasingly competitive, the high standard of work displayed here is a testament to the dedication and skill of our students. We are proud to present their unique and imaginative designs, from set models to costumes, hair and make-up, posters, and animations. This event celebrates the intersection of creativity and discipline, and we are excited to see where their passion, creativity and hard work will take them.”

This is an exciting, inspiring, and completely free event that promises to leave you in awe of the talent and dedication of these young artists. Come along, be inspired, and support the future stars of the creative industry!

A selection of the best works will go forward to the national stage at the Royal Ballet & Opera Design Challenge, with winners announced later this Spring. Could you be among the first to witness the next big name in production design?