School of Digital Arts Credit: Manchester Metropolitan University

As someone whose career has been dedicated to exploring the intersections of culture, creativity, and education, I am proud to contribute to the growth of the School of Digital Arts (SODA) at Manchester Metropolitan University. SODA represents a unique and forward-thinking approach to digital arts education, combining leading-edge technology with the richness of cultural engagement to prepare students for the challenges and opportunities of an ever-evolving creative landscape.

Since its establishment in 2021, the School of Digital Arts has stood as a testament to Manchester Met’s commitment to the creative industries. Investing £35 million into a state-of-the-art environment that prepares students for the evolving demands of the digital age, it sits alongside a highly regarded portfolio of art, design, fashion and architecture courses at the university. For me, SODA represents a unique opportunity to integrate my work with Manchester’s cultural landscape into a space dedicated to innovation, experimentation, and storytelling.

Throughout my career, my research has focused on popular culture’s role as a lens for understanding society, technology, and identity. This perspective has been pivotal in shaping SODA’s approach to education, where students are encouraged not only to develop technical skills but also to critically engage with the cultural and societal implications of their work. At SODA, we aim to prepare students who are not only industry-ready but also culturally aware—individuals who can use digital arts to reflect, challenge, and shape the world around them.

For me, popular culture serves as an essential bridge between the arts and the wider public. Whether examining the narratives of music, film, or digital media, I see it as a tool for connection and communication. At SODA, this ethos is embedded into our curriculum, where students explore how digital storytelling, animation, and immersive experiences can resonate with audiences across diverse platforms.

One of the most rewarding aspects of my work at SODA is the opportunity to connect our students with Manchester’s thriving cultural sector. Over the years, I have been fortunate to work with some of the city’s most innovative organisations, including HOME, Factory International, and the Manchester Jazz Festival. These partnerships have not only informed my own academic practice but also allowed me to create pathways for our students to engage directly with the cultural life of the city.

A key example of this is our collaboration with Abandon Normal Devices (AND) through SODA’s digital gallery, Modal. Together, we’ve launched Critical Acts: Performance Lectures, a series that examines how power operates in the digital age. This programme is a perfect reflection of what SODA stands for: challenging conventions, exploring new models of digital engagement, and fostering dialogue between technology, art, and society. It is deeply rewarding to see students, researchers, and the public engage with this work, blurring the lines between learning and cultural production.

Professor Kirsty Fairclough

Our work at SODA has also been about ensuring that students are embedded in Manchester’s cultural ecosystem. Through partnerships with organisations like Factory International, we’ve enabled students to contribute to high-profile cultural projects, giving them practical experience that complements their studies. Whether it’s participating in immersive installations, supporting live performances, or contributing to digital storytelling projects, these opportunities prepare students for creative careers that are both impactful and socially engaged.

At the heart of SODA’s work is a commitment to empowering students. I believe that the most impactful education equips students with both the technical skills and the cultural knowledge they need to thrive in the creative industries. Through our partnerships with organisations like Factory International, SODA students have had opportunities to contribute to major cultural projects—gaining practical experience, building networks, and learning how to navigate the complex relationships between art, technology, and audiences.

These experiences are invaluable, not only for professional development but also for fostering a deeper understanding of how their work fits into a broader cultural context. Whether it’s exploring the ethics of AI, creating immersive VR experiences, or producing interactive digital narratives, our students are encouraged to push boundaries and embrace the possibilities of digital arts as a medium for cultural expression.

For me, SODA is a living laboratory where education, culture, and technology intersect. My goal has always been to amplify the voices of our students and connect them to the wider world through meaningful collaborations. By weaving SODA into Manchester’s cultural fabric, we are not only equipping the next generation of creative professionals but also enriching the city’s cultural vibrancy.

It is a privilege to work alongside such talented colleagues, students, and cultural partners to shape SODA into a hub of creativity and innovation. Together, we are redefining what it means to create and engage in the digital arts, ensuring that SODA remains a vital part of Manchester’s creative future.