5 Reasons Why Norwich Is Great for Design

Norwich is the cultural hub of East Anglia, and home to Hype Marketing’s Headquarters. We’re constantly inspired by the winding streets of the city and the beauty of the surrounding coast and country, so let us share five reasons why we love to design in Norwich:

Learn

In 2014, the Norwich University of the Arts BA (Hons) Graphic Design course was voted #1 specialist arts institution in the UK for design studies. With top- notch facilities, influential tutors and a vitally realistic approach to preparing students for the world of work, NUA has built a reputation on this dynamic, innovative course and the world- class designers it produces. Norwich has learning opportunities for all abilities, ages and budgets; from formal qualifications to day workshops and free art festivals, there is something for every budding or established designer.

See

Norwich is a fantastic base for graphic designers, artists and illustrators alike because of the thriving local art and design scene- the city is full of independent shops, galleries and studio spaces, hidden in every nook and cranny. The Norwich Lanes are host to such home- grown havens as Moosey Art; an urban, contemporary art gallery that started with pop- up street art exhibitions in 2013 and has since grown to a unique space that evolves to take on the aesthetic of the resident artist at the time. The Norwich Lanes also house Dove St Studios- a collaborative studio, project and installation space, Gallery in the Lanes- a gallery and framing workshop specialising in beautiful glass art, and Fairhurst Gallery and Framers.

Do

Norfolk’s local art scene is only strengthened by the community events that take place all year round. There are some fantastic opportunities for developing creatively and gaining exposure- not least competitions such as the open air Paint Out. Other past and upcoming events include the multi- disciplined creative extravaganza Norfolk and Norwich Festival and the wonderfully interactive and completely free Maker’s Week hosted at the Forum.

Drink

The city boasts an offbeat collection of the best coffee shops, bars and restaurants- providing artists and designers with a place to both muse and schmooze clients. From the bohemian and the quirky- The Birdcage, Frank’s Bar- to the homely and traditional- The Fat Cat, The Adam and Eve, Norwich has a setting for every informal meeting and every drink to celebrate pitches won.

Travel

Lacking inspiration? Sketchbook looking a little bare? Whether you need references for a new piece of work or just a few hours to clear your head and refresh, Norwich has the architecture, the atmosphere and the gorgeous natural surroundings to keep designers happily distracted and inspired in equal measure. The nearest of the Norfolk Broads is a mere 2 miles from the City Centre, boasting peaceful scenery, plentiful local wildlife and even a cute cafe in which to sit and sketch away the hours.