Acclaimed artist awarded honorary degree

Michiko Nitta, who has exhibited work at the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA), and the V&A has been awarded the honorary degree Doctor of Arts by Solent University, Southampton, today (Monday 4 October).

Michiko grew up in Tokyo before coming to the UK, where she studied at Central Saint Martins, and then gained an MA at the Royal College of Art. Her work has been exhibited at international galleries including the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) in New York, Haus Der Kulturen Der Welt in Berlin and ICA in London. Michiko has a number of publications to her name and has spoken at international conferences including in the UK, US and China.   

Michiko is the co-founder and director of the transdisciplinary art and design studio Burton Nitta, in collaboration with Michael Burton.

Burton Nitta creates artworks that engage with audiences through investigating our future world and human evolution, often working in close collaboration with emerging scientists and technologists.

Their projects have been exhibited worldwide, including MoMA in New York, V&A Museum in London, Centre Pompidou in Paris, Migros Museum in Switzerland, MAK in Vienna and Royal Academy in London.  

Michiko has a long association with Solent University and through her involvement in the  School of Art, Design and Fashion, where she has encouraged students to realise their individual potential. 

 Commenting on the award, she says, “I am most privileged to receive this Honorary Doctorate from Solent university that plays a big part in developing creative, inspiring and innovative students. A big thanks to everyone who supported and inspired me in my life. It could not happen without you all. Thank you and congratulations to new graduates and their parents, I wish you every success on the road ahead. 心から感謝を申し上げます。卒業生の皆様おめでとうございます。”