Our final year BA (Hons) Animation student, Sophie Panteli, explains why she chose to study in Leeds, what she gets up to in the studio and showcases her beautiful paper cut work and illustrations...
Why did you choose to study at Leeds Arts University?
I discovered Leeds Arts University during a research project on Barbra Hepworth and decided instantly that I must attend! On visiting I was thrilled to discover a real intimacy and creative buzz. The tutors made me feel at home instantly and the University-wide focus on employability stood out amongst other choices.
Image: Courtesy of Sophie Panteli
What do you specialise in and what are you working on at the moment?
Currently, I’m specialising in set design for stop motion animation. I’ve been pursuing paper as a medium, using it to complete competition briefs, build sets and puppets for animation. I love it’s tactile, graphic quality (and that it’s really cheap in the library shop!)
What does a typical day/week as a BA (Hons) Animation student involve?
In third year, a typical week in animation involves independent study where we liaise with our peers and work on our collaborative projects. Additionally, we have tutorials, teaching and weekly presentations where we share our current work, creatively problem solving and generating ideas collectively as a class.
Image: Courtesy of Sophie Panteli
How does the University support you?
The support at uni has been accessible and personal. Financial aid from the hardship fund and a bursary for low income households has made sure I’m financially stable. Academic support has made writing pain free and the mental guidance from welfare too has been so uplifting. Not to mention, the rapport and close relationship we share with our tutors.
Image: Courtesy of Sophie Panteli
What do you like about living in Leeds?
Leeds has all your amenities as a student: cheap food from Leeds Kirkgate Market, great nights out, creative events and spaces, accessible nature on the Leeds Liverpool Canal and Meanwood Valley Trail. I’ve found it a great first step into independence and an insightful stepping stone into adult life.
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