10 Years of Glow Festival
Our Glow Festival has been a beacon of creativity, innovation, and community for a decade. Launched in 2014, Glow has evolved into an annual cornerstone event that showcases the incredible talents of students from the College's Creative Industries faculty. As we head into the new session, we look back and celebrate 10 years of Glow - how it has grown, the impact it has had, and what makes it such a unique experience for everyone involved.
A platform for creative expression
The Glow Festival was developed as a platform to celebrate the artistic and creative achievements of our students. Initially, Glow was smaller scale than we have seen in 2024, allowing students in course areas including music, dance, theatre, and visual arts to showcase their work to the public, offering a taste of the professional world they were about to enter.
A decade of growth and expansion
Over the years, Glow has expanded far beyond its original scope. From a modest beginning, it has grown into a multi-disciplinary celebration that encompasses not only the traditional arts but also subjects including photography, film, fashion, gaming and digital media. Each year, Glow has added new dimensions, reflecting the changing landscape of education and the importance of the Creative Industries in today’s economy.
The introduction of collaborations with industry professionals and local businesses has been a key factor in Glow's development. These partnerships have provided students with real-world experience and networking opportunities, further enhancing the festival's reputation as a launchpad for emerging talent.
Highlights from the past decade
Throughout its 10-year history, Glow has been home to countless memorable moments. Here are just a few highlights:
- 2016: The year of digital art - This edition of the festival marked the first time digital art and animation were given a prominent platform. Students showcased their work through immersive installations and virtual reality experiences, pushing the boundaries of traditional art forms.
- 2018: A focus on fashion - 2018 introduced a dedicated fashion show, where students from the fashion and textiles programmes displayed their collections. The event attracted attention from local media and industry insiders, leading to several students receiving offers to work with established designers.
- 2020: Resilience in the face of a pandemic - The global COVID-19 pandemic posed significant challenges, but the Glow Festival adapted by moving online. The digital format allowed the festival to reach a broader audience than ever before, with live-streamed performances, virtual galleries, and online workshops. This year demonstrated the resilience and adaptability of both the students and Glow festival itself.
- 2023: A celebration of diversity - 2023 emphasised diversity and inclusion, with a range of events celebrating different cultures, identities, and perspectives. From a multicultural dance showcase to an art exhibition focused on social justice themes, Glow 2023 highlighted the College's commitment to reflecting the diverse backgrounds of its students.
Impact on students and the community
Glow has had a profound impact on both students and the wider community. For students, it is often the first opportunity to present their work in a professional setting, providing a critical bridge between education and the Creative Industries sector. The experience gained from participating in the festival has helped many alumni secure jobs, launch their own businesses, or pursue further studies in their chosen fields.
For the local community, the festival has become an annual highlight, drawing in audiences from across the city and beyond. It has fostered a strong connection between the College and the local arts scene, contributing to Edinburgh’s reputation as a hub for creativity and innovation.
Looking to the future
As Glow enters its second decade, there is much to look forward to. The Creative Industries team is continually seeking new ways to innovate and expand.
Moreover, the festival will continue to prioritise inclusivity, ensuring that all students have the opportunity to participate and shine, regardless of their background or discipline.
