Film director, Clio Barnard, was recognised by Leeds Arts University during a graduation ceremony on Thursday, 23 November.
“It was a huge privilege for me to accept an honorary degree from Leeds Arts University,” said Barnard, whose first feature film, The Arbor, established her as a leading light in the UK film industry.
“The University has long played a vital role in shaping the lives and careers of so many people in the creative arts. With new courses starting next year, including a degree course in Filmmaking, the future is even more exciting for the University.”
Barnard said she has fond memories of studying at the University – which at the time was called Jacob Kramer College – completing a Foundation Diploma in Art & Design in 1984.
“Clio Barnard has made a major contribution to the UK film industry with her extraordinary and thought-provoking Yorkshire dramas.’
“Honestly, it was my favourite year of my entire education,” she said. “I really loved it. It was an exciting time – I had left home and I was learning to experiment and be creative. We were encouraged to play and it was very free. It’s where it all began for me.”
Professor Simone Wonnacott, Vice-Chancellor, Leeds Arts University said: “Clio Barnard has made a major contribution to the UK film industry with her extraordinary and thought-provoking Yorkshire dramas.
“We are delighted to present her with the University’s first-ever honorary Master of Arts degree and I hope Clio’s success will inspire other young filmmakers to make their mark in the industry.”
