Exploring the UK: A Journey of Art, Fashion, and Cultural Exchange with MDIS Tashkent

In a remarkable initiative led by Mr. Ersel Orge, Head of the Fashion and Design School at MDIS Tashkent, students embarked on an enriching journey through four iconic UK cities—Sunderland, Newcastle, Edinburgh, and London. This educational tour was designed to provide students with firsthand experience of the UK’s diverse artistic and cultural landscapes, as well as its profound influence on the global fashion industry.

Sunderland: Where Tradition Meets Innovation

Our first destination was Sunderland, a city where the legacy of industrial heritage is seamlessly interwoven with contemporary art and fashion. Students were welcomed to the local fashion campus, where they exchanged ideas with lecturers and fellow students. This interaction highlighted the city’s unique blend of traditional craftsmanship and modern design.

Alina Yusupova, a second-year student of Fashion Product and Promotion, reflected on the experience: “It was fascinating to see how history shapes modern fashion here. The integration of past influences with contemporary design sparked new ideas that I am eager to incorporate into my own work.”

Newcastle: A Hub of Creative Innovation

The group then traveled to Newcastle, renowned for its cutting-edge architecture and dynamic artistic scene. Visits to institutions such as the Baltic Centre for Contemporary Art, combined with explorations of local street art, provided the students with fresh perspectives on creativity.

Even Diora, a third-year student of Accounting and Finance, found inspiration beyond her usual field of study. She noted: “I didn’t expect to be so inspired by the art here. It demonstrated how creativity can influence even the world of finance.”

Edinburgh: Tradition and Modernity in Perfect Harmony

In Edinburgh, the students were captivated by the city’s blend of historical significance and forward-thinking fashion. Exploring its medieval streets alongside modern boutiques, they witnessed how Scottish tradition continues to inform the local fashion industry.

Yulduz Khusniddinova, a second-year Fashion Product and Promotion student, expressed her admiration: “The way Scottish fashion harmonizes tradition and innovation was truly inspiring. It has made me reconsider how I approach my designs, emphasizing the importance of cultural heritage.”

London: The Global Fashion Capital

The final stop of the tour was London, recognized as a global epicenter of fashion and art. The students had the opportunity to visit prestigious institutions such as the Savile Row’s Norton and Sons Atelier and the University for the Creative Arts, where they observed the pinnacle of fashion design and craftsmanship.

Reflecting on the visit, Mr. Ersel Orge commented: “London exemplifies the peak of creativity in fashion. Our students were able to witness how theoretical knowledge is applied in real-world settings at the highest professional level.”

A Broader Perspective and Lasting Impact

Throughout the journey, students engaged with a wide range of professionals, lecturers, and fellow students, fostering an exchange of ideas that transcended the classroom. This experience not only broadened their understanding of fashion but also opened their minds to new cultural perspectives and approaches to design.

The UK tour offered much more than just a visit to new cities. It was a transformative experience, filled with inspiration, collaboration, and personal growth. The students returned to MDIS Tashkent with new ideas, strengthened friendships, and a deeper appreciation of the global fashion industry.

As MDIS Tashkent continues to prioritize international experiences for its students, the success of this UK trip reinforces the value of cultural exchange in shaping future leaders in fashion and design.