Two students go creative to support artists

Two enterprising students at the University of Warwick have launched their own company to support creative undergraduates and create a network of artists throughout the UK.

Jennytha Raj (20) and Verity Scott (21) have set up ‘B-Side Empire’ to give artistic students a unique platform to raise their profiles, highlight their talents and network.

Their website, www.turntothebside.com, focuses on photography, illustration, graphic design, music, film, performance, fine art, sculpture and creative writing, and showcases events such as gigs, poetry readings and exhibitions, amongst others.

Speaking of their new venture, Verity said: “B-Side Empire was first dreamt up when we discovered that lots of students were not getting the support they needed to really flourish.

“Coupled with a highly competitive and saturated creative industry, we wanted to give artistic students a platform to raise their own profiles, secure jobs following graduation and get all the support they need to really develop their creative skills.”

Verity continued: “Through B-Side Empire we hope to help students pursue their creative interests and talents, assist them in getting their work seen and heard and network with people within the creative industries. It’s almost an online portfolio for those we support and something students can then present to potential employers.”

Their website is currently being redesigned and the new site is set to go live later this year. It will host lots of new features including an online shop, competitions and videos. People will also be able to sign up as members.

Jennytha Raj added: “We really want to promote student artwork and give creative students a voice. By launching our own business, we’ve definitely set ourselves a challenge but we’re determined to make this a success and do something positively not just for ourselves but for students all over the UK and beyond.”

Jennytha and Verity, who are in their final years and studying Film at the University of Warwick, are now looking for sponsors and investors to help make their vision a reality. If you’d like to get involved, simply send them an email to info@turntothebside.com.