Work has begun on a £35m School of Digital Arts at Manchester Metropolitan University.
SODA is set to open in 2021 to support the “urgent and growing demand” for skilled digital storytellers in the digital and tech sector.
It will have state-of-the-art lab spaces, workshops and professional networks, to teach the next generation of filmmakers, animators and games designers.
“SODA combines Manchester Metropolitan’s excellence in the arts with our expertise in technology. The creative and digital industries are growing, here in Manchester, nationally and internationally, creating urgent demand for new skills and knowledge. SODA will prepare our students to be the next generation of creative talent, ready to succeed in these new roles,” explained Vice-Chancellor Professor Malcolm Press.
“It will give Manchester a unique centre, unmatched anywhere in the country in its scope and ambition. SODA will sit alongside our School of Art and Manchester Writing School, forming a world-class centre for creativity, working with industry to develop skills, nurture innovation and enhance economic success.”
More than 1000 students a year will study at the centre, which features Oscar-winning director Danny Boyle and multi BAFTA award-winning producer Nicola Shindler as co-chairs of its industry advisory board.
The 5-storey, 5,200m² building will be located on Higher Chatham Street. Designed by FCBStudios, it will house a digital innovation and UX lab, film studios, green screens, edit suites, sound, music and production studios; alongside a screening room and gallery space.
[Image – FCBStudios]
