Alumni Steve McQueen Wins Oscar Nomination

Steve McQueen, the critically lauded filmmaker and former student of West London College, has picked up a Golden Globe and Oscar nomination for his film ’12 Years a Slave’.

The director, who studied at Ealing Green College, collected the prestigious Golden Globe Award for Best Motion Picture and days later received an Oscar nomination for best director.

Set in 1841 New York, the film tells the true story of Solomon Northup, a free black man who is kidnapped and sold into slavery.

McQueen, born in west London, wanted to make a film about slavery and in a recent interview spoke of his delight when he found the book upon which 12 Years a Slave is based: “It was identical to my idea. But every turn of the page was a revelation, because you think you know what slavery is, and you’re opening this book and thinking, my God. Every page was just, wow, really? It was such an eye-opener.”

After studying at the college, Steve moved on to the Chelsea College of Arts and Goldsmiths College. No stranger to critical success, he won the Turner Prize in 1999.

Director of Curriculum Adam Fahey said: “It is always pleasing to see our former students do well. We aim to equip our students with the tools and confidence to make an impact on the world regardless of their chosen career path.”