From 1964 “Something Fierce” emerged in Essex – a new University determined to look to the future and break with tradition.
Something Fierce explores the bold, brutalist sixties architecture of the Colchester Campus, the academic vision that it upheld, conceived with post-war optimism for building a better Britain. The founding Vice-Chancellor Albert Sloman might have provided the blueprint for the University of Essex, but it was the students who shaped the University and made it their own. The tools for them to activate Essex were provided: progressive lecturers working at a freer, more daring and experimental university whose integrated architecture brings us together for study and socialising. With the components in place for a forward-thinking university, this sometimes disobedient university has been defined by 50 years of students thinking critically and wanting to make a difference.
Something Fierce includes architect’s model and plans, examples of our carefully made concrete, photographs, archival film footage and student memorabilia.
The Hexagon, one of the iconic buildings built at the birth of the University, hosts this exhibition, curated by Professor Jules Lubbock and Jess Kenny.
Due to popular demand, Something Fierce is staying open for focused weeks of events and activities. The next spotlight week takes place over graduation: Tuesday 14 July – Saturday 18 July 2015.
To find out more, please visit the exhibition homepage.
