IW College Blog Post: Media Students Explore Wes Anderson’s Archive at the Design Museum
On a dark and chilly morning on 17 December 2025, students from Studio B’s Media Department set off from Portsmouth for an exciting day trip to the Design Museum in Kensington, London. Spirits were high as our T-Level Media (Year 1 & Year 2) students arrived just in time for an exclusive first look at the acclaimed filmmaker Wes Anderson’s Archives exhibition. Anderson—director of The Royal Tenenbaums, The Life Aquatic with Steve Zissou, The Grand Budapest Hotel, and the animated adaptation of Roald Dahl’s Fantastic Mr. Fox—has opened up his personal archive for this touring exhibition.
Students explored a rich collection of photographs, costumes, props, and even original stop-motion models from Fantastic Mr. Fox and Isle of Dogs, offering a fascinating insight into his distinctive creative approach. After lunch, the BTEC Level 2 Media group had their turn inside the exhibition, while the rest of the department explored the museum’s additional galleries and design showcases.. Before leaving London, students enjoyed a final wander through the museum’s gift shop and its beautiful courtyard gardens. Despite the long journey home, spirits remained high.
Every student represented the Isle of Wight College brilliantly throughout the trip. We’re already looking forward to our next adventure—this Thursday’s taster day at Southampton Solent University, where students will explore the university’s impressive media facilities and discover the opportunities that await them after graduating from the College.
