Questions

What's your favourite work of art or exhibition at the Barber Institute of Fine Art?

My favourite exhibition at the Barber Institute of Fine Art has to have been ‘Claudette Johnson: Darker Than Blue,’ which ran from 22 June to 15 September 2024. Johnson is renowned for her powerful depiction of Black figures, reclaiming their place within narratives of Western art history. The standout artwork for me was ‘Blues Dance’ (2023), a portrayal of a woman immersed in music and movement, brought to life by the vibrancy of the blue and yellow palette in the work. The exhibition was particularly meaningful, not only for its artistic impact, but also for being the first at the Barber to showcase the work of a Black woman.

What's been your favourite module on your MA so far?

My favourite module on the MA programme has undoubtedly been ‘Curatorial Practices.’ This module provides the incredible opportunity to collaborate with galleries in Birmingham, co-curating exhibitions or developing public programming events. Working alongside industry professionals in an environment that encourages open, creating exploration has been both exciting and deeply rewarding.

What's your career goal and how is Birmingham helping you reach this?

Working in Learning, Engagement and Outreach within the arts is a passion of mine in whatever capacity, driven by the goal of making art accessible to everyone. My time at Birmingham has inspired me to approach these ideas with creativity and openness, fostering meaningful conversations within Art History – a field that continues to evolve, become increasingly inclusive and self-reflective.

What do you think is unique about the University of Birmingham?

What has always stood out to me about the University of Birmingham is that it thrives as a hub of active research, led by scholars, writers, historians, and experts deeply engaged in their fields. There is always an ongoing dialogue, and students are encouraged to learn alongside them and be a part of a wider conversation.