Research at the School of Art & Design

Our research culture

Our research here at Nottingham Trent University (NTU) acts as a vital cornerstone in the activities and the life of our School. We have an outward-looking research culture, with a strong focus on art and design practice as a significant contributor to cultural enrichment, social dynamics, and economic vitality.

Outstanding facilities

Our School is based in our Bonington and Waverley buildings, both dedicated centres for Art and Design.

Our extensive facilities are supported by highly skilled technical staff, and include:

• a dedicated postgraduate studio for practice-based students
• moulding, casting and resin workshops
• ceramic and glass kilns, metal and wood workshops
• photographic studios, darkrooms, and camera store
• digital garment and knitwear technology
• digital textile printing, loom and embroidery equipment
• print room and dye facility
• computer-aided design (CAD) systems
• laser cutting and engraving technology
• a working studio theatre
• audio and video suite with editing facilities
• Mac and PC IT suites
• NTU's Bonington Gallery.

What our research includes

School of Art and Design

• Advanced Textiles
• Art Research
• Creative Textiles (with three themes)
  
  • Global Cultures
  • Digital Craft and Embodied Knowledge
  • Lace Heritage

Product Design

• Sustainable Consumption
• Advanced Design and Manufacturing Engineering Centre
• Design for Health and Wellbeing
• Clothing Sustainability Research Group

Impact case studies

These case studies show the impact of our work:

• Advanced Textiles
• Public Policy and the Sustainability of Consumer Goods
• Art and Belief

Our staff and postgraduate researchers undertake innovative investigations, discovering fresh ideas, designs, performances and works of art leading to new perceptions, products, and processes.

In the case of more theoretical projects, they engage with a range of perspectives on art and design practice, drawing from cultural, perceptual, pedagogic, and systems theory. In addition, a significant strand of activity is focused on the exploration of new technologies and innovating methods, materials and procedures.

Our work is of direct relevance to needs and developments in the cultural, industrial and commercial sectors, and is supported by income from a range of bodies including:

• the AHRC
• the Drapers' Company
• the EU
• other national charities and public service agencies in the East Midlands and beyond.

PhD opportunities

Interested in doing PhD research? Find out more about the course in Art and Design.

Funding and studentships are also available.