University for the Creative Arts Visual Communication Graduate Wins Apple’s YourTree Competition at Battersea Power Station

University for the Creative Arts Visual Communication Graduate Wins Apple’s YourTree Competition at Battersea Power Station

Apple’s YourTree Competition: A New Platform for Visual Communicators

Apple’s annual YourTree competition has become a landmark event for designers worldwide, offering a chance to showcase creativity on a global stage. In 2025, the University for the Creative Arts (UCA) celebrated a proud moment when one of its MA Visual Communications graduates, Varsha Simha, secured a win. Her design, titled Snuggle Tree, was projected onto the iconic chimneys of Battersea Power Station, a 101‑metre‑high landmark on the River Thames.

For students and professionals in visual communication, this achievement demonstrates how academic training can translate into real‑world recognition. It also highlights the importance of engaging with industry‑backed competitions to build a portfolio that stands out to employers and clients alike.

What the Competition Entails

The YourTree competition invites participants to create a digital Christmas tree design using Apple devices. The winning entries are then projected onto Battersea Power Station’s towers, visible to millions of visitors each year. The 2025 edition was open to the public for the first time, allowing anyone with an iPad Pro or iPhone to submit a design.

Key elements of the competition include:

  • Use of Apple’s design tools (e.g., Procreate, Sketch)
  • Originality and visual impact
  • Technical feasibility for large‑scale projection
  • Alignment with the festive theme and community spirit

How the University for the Creative Arts Supports Students

UCA’s Visual Communication program equips students with both creative and technical skills. The curriculum covers:

  • Advanced illustration and digital painting techniques
  • Motion graphics and animation fundamentals
  • Project management and client communication
  • Industry‑standard software training (Adobe Creative Cloud, Apple Procreate)

Faculty members often collaborate with industry partners, providing students with real‑time feedback and exposure to professional workflows. This environment nurtures the kind of innovative thinking that Varsha demonstrated in her winning design.

Varsha Simha’s Winning Design: From Concept to Projection

Design Inspiration and Process

Varsha drew inspiration from the cozy atmosphere of Christmas markets, focusing on warmth and comfort. She began by sketching fuzzy, miniature figures—reminiscent of knitted sweaters and holiday stockings—before adding glowing stars and festive hats. Her process involved:

  • Initial hand‑drawn sketches to establish composition
  • Digital refinement using Procreate on an iPad Pro
  • Layering of textures to create depth and warmth
  • Color grading to match the luminous quality of a holiday light display

Technical Execution and Projection

Once the design was finalized, it was converted into a format suitable for large‑scale projection. The team at UCA worked closely with Apple’s technical staff to ensure the image would render correctly on Battersea’s 101‑metre chimneys. The projection schedule ran daily from 5 pm to 10:30 pm, allowing visitors to experience the digital tree in real time.

Varsha’s success illustrates how a strong conceptual foundation, combined with technical proficiency, can bring a design from the screen to a physical landmark.

Benefits of Participating in Public Design Competitions

Portfolio Enhancement

Winning or even being shortlisted in a high‑profile competition adds credibility to a portfolio. Recruiters and clients often look for evidence of a designer’s ability to work under constraints and deliver impactful visuals. A competition entry demonstrates:

  • Creative problem‑solving skills
  • Technical execution under time pressure
  • Ability to collaborate with industry partners

Networking Opportunities

Competitions like YourTree bring together designers, technologists, and brand representatives. Participants can:

  • Meet potential employers and collaborators
  • Learn about emerging tools and workflows
  • Receive mentorship from established artists such as Kylie Minogue and Sir Stephen Fry, who were also featured in the 2025 competition

Steps to Get Involved in Similar Competitions

Research Opportunities

Start by identifying competitions that align with your interests. Look for events that:

  • Offer exposure to industry leaders
  • Provide clear submission guidelines and deadlines
  • Encourage the use of specific software or hardware you are comfortable with

Skill Development

To prepare, focus on:

  • Mastering digital illustration tools (Procreate, Adobe Illustrator)
  • Understanding large‑scale projection techniques
  • Developing a strong narrative or theme for your design
  • Practicing time‑management to meet tight deadlines

Submission Guidelines

When you find a competition, carefully review the rules. Common requirements include:

  • File format and resolution specifications
  • Maximum file size and color profile
  • Proof of ownership or originality
  • Submission deadline and method (online portal, email)

Adhering to these guidelines increases the likelihood that your entry will be considered.

Explore Visual Communication Studies at UCA

Course Overview

UCA offers a range of visual communication programs, from undergraduate degrees to postgraduate specialisations. The MA Visual Communications course, for example, blends theory with hands‑on projects, culminating in a portfolio that showcases a student’s unique voice.

Industry Connections

UCA’s strong ties with creative agencies, tech firms, and media outlets provide students with:

  • Internship placements
  • Guest lectures from industry leaders
  • Real‑world project collaborations

Student Success Stories

Beyond Varsha Simha, UCA alumni have achieved recognition in global competitions, secured roles at top agencies, and launched successful freelance practices. These outcomes underscore the value of a UCA education in preparing students for a dynamic creative landscape.

Ready to build a career that could lead to a win at Apple’s YourTree competition? Apply to UCA’s Visual Communication program today and start developing the skills that set you apart.

Curious about how UCA’s curriculum aligns with industry demands? Schedule a free consultation with our admissions team to discuss your goals and the pathways available.

Want to see more examples of student work and competition entries? Submit your portfolio now and take the first step toward a career in visual communication.

For additional insights into visual communication trends and career advice, explore our related articles and stay ahead of the curve.