We talk to Antonia about her time on BA (Hons) Visual Communication so far and what she loves about Leeds
What made you choose to study BA (Hons) Visual Communication?
It stood out to me because of the great ethos behind it. Visual Communication promised to help me create work that could make a great difference to society, something that no other course offered. I was originally interested in illustration, yet I wanted to create work that had a purpose other than to just make me money.
What do you enjoy most about the Course?
How much they tailor the course to your individual needs; there are students interested in all areas of practice on Visual Communication, but they make sure that you can still gain the relevant marks no matter your choice of practice. Also, as there is such a mix of interests and skills on the course it is always really fun and helpful to collaborate - it's so easy to find someone who can help you with something you are not as confident with. For example someone on the course who does photography could photograph your work and you can both put it towards your course work.
What are the studios and facilities like at the University?
Really great, there are a lot of facilities available to the whole of the University and anyone can get an induction if they are interested. I used the ceramic studio a lot on second year, and although I had only done ceramics once before I produced some great work, mainly because the staff are really helpful and were eager to teach me.
What are you currently working on?
I'm currently doing placements in a school for children who are unwell and can't attend normal school and as an art facilitator at a place called Lovell Park for women with mental health problems. I also do a little illustration on the side, but I mainly focus on community arts - using art as a means for recovery or using it within an educational setting.
Where do you draw your inspiration?
When it comes to my illustration I tend to use blogs and websites dedicated to great artists for inspiration. booooooom.com and doodlersanonymous.com are great starting points. When it comes to community art work I also follow great craft blogs, but also draw inspiration from the people I am working with.
What do you plan to do after University?
I plan to spend a year getting more relevant work experience and then apply do a PGCE.
Tell us about what it's like to study and live in Leeds
I love how the city shows it is full of creative people - so many art students working in one small city means that there are always tons of exhibitions and events to get inspired by. As someone who works within community art I love how many charities there are in Leeds that are willing to let a student get involved and promote the use of art as an integral part of mental well being.
The night life is also great for students, with many great nights being organised regularly. Even these are becoming more creatively led, with some people on my course getting involved in creating light shows and installations for House and Tehno nights.
