Pictured: Business Secretary Vince Cable MP visits the
NVision 3D ActiveCube at The University of Northampton
Business Secretary Vince Cable MP recently visited The
University of Northampton [Thursday 26 January] to learn more about
the challenges faced by the creative industries sector and
accompanying opportunities offered by social enterprises.
The Minister met with Uzma Johal and Barry Hale of Threshold
Studios, a social enterprise and tenant of NVision, the 3D
immersive Technology Centre based at the University's School of
Science and Technology.
Along with NVision and academic staff, the group discussed how
Threshold is working with the University to help 'upskill'
graduates and identify talented people to ensure employers are
connected with highly capable and technically advanced
individuals.
Threshold's previous work has included region-wide and national
training linked to production initiatives for artists and media
practitioners for 14 years. The organisation has recently curated
and delivered 'Frequency', Lincoln's first digital culture
festival, showcasing the region's talent alongside international
work.
Threshold is currently working with the University on a number
of initiatives, including collaborating with artists in the NVision
lab to create new 3D artworks for international exhibition.
The University of Northampton's is aiming to become the leading
higher education institution for social enterprises in the UK by
2015 by supporting its students and other organisations that
benefit society. Its work with organisations such as Threshold is
growing rapidly
The Minister also entered the NVision 3D ActiveCube, a facility
part-funded by ERDF* for an immersive experience of how 3D
technology can be deployed to communicate ideas more effectively,
eliminate design errors and cost, and significantly reduce the time
taken to deliver new products into the market.
Speaking about their relationship with NVision and the
University, Barry Hale of Threshold said: ""There are some really
exciting opportunities for the creative media industries to work
with Universities on the arts and technology agenda. We are looking
forward to collaborating with The University of Northampton on some
dynamic initiatives around 3D and upskilling for the sector."
Professor Nick Petford, Vice chancellor of The University of
Northampton, added: "We were very pleased to welcome a politician
of the calibre of Vince Cable to The University of Northampton to
discuss some of the latest developments in ongoing work around the
creative industries and social enterprise."
*ERDF - The European Regional Development Fund