Questions

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

My favourite work at the Barber Institute is ‘A Portrait of Carolus-Duran’ by Edouard Manet. Impressionism is what initially got me interested in field art history, so I love having the opportunity to see more Impressionistic work whilst studying on campus. I especially enjoy that the portrait is considered unfinished as evident in Manet’s improvised landscape and rapid brushstrokes. Unfinished artworks always fascinate me because we can see a snippet of the artist at work and their processes before a piece is deemed finished.

Do you have a favourite module?

My favourite module has been Curatorial Practices. In this module, I have the unique opportunity to work alongside fellow students to curate an exhibition that will be displayed through the Barber Institute of Fine Arts. Rather than just a mock-up for an assessment, this exhibition will be fully realised and open to the public to view online. Each member of my group brings their own unique skillsets and perspectives to the project. Being able to work with such an established institution as the Barber Institute of Fine Arts has granted me invaluable first-hand experience in my desired field. The Barber Institute guides us along the way to make sure we meet our deadlines, but we are responsible for coming up with our theme and successfully executing our research and interpretations. Through this collaborative project, we were able to handle illuminated manuscripts dated from the Medieval and Renaissance time periods courtesy of the Victoria and Albert Museum, Barber Institute of Fine Arts, and the Cadbury Research Library. Being able to touch and observe such fragile objects which we will be curating for our exhibition has been my favourite experience of the module thus far. These objects are not open to the public to view, let alone to handle, so it was exciting to physically see the works that we will be implementing into our exhibition rather than images through a computer screen. Within this module, we have also learned how curating has evolved as a practice which is important to consider so someone wanting to be involved in museum curation one day. Our module professors have provided us with ample resources to assure that our groups can effectively work together in a collaborative environment. It has been so rewarding to watch our project come into fruition this term and I am eager to see what my group will develop for the exhibition next term.

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

Towards the end of my undergraduate education, I knew that I wanted to pursue a career in the art museum and / or heritage sectors. I knew that I needed to go back to University to get into my desired field, however, I was not sure how to go about making sure I was set up for success to pursue my postgraduate degree. Going back to university is such a commitment but I have felt supported by my programme every step along the way. Especially as an international student, uprooting my life to come to the UK for my education has not been easy but I know that the opportunities and work experiences through my program will establish a foundation for success when I enter the work field post-graduation. Within the first couple weeks of term one, I was able to secure a work placement at the New Art Gallery Walsall. Without the University’s connections and more specifically my department’s emphasis on relevant work experience, I would not have known of this opportunity or how to pursue similar ones. Gaining tangible experience in the art sector is crucial and was something that I was lacking in my undergraduate courses. Through my work placement and module opportunities, I am confident that I will be well prepared for a career in the museum industry. Birmingham’s Careers Network has been especially helpful in providing resources to develop my skillsets and search for potential internships and future careers. Through their services, I have been able to perfect my CV and tailor it to potential employers as well as consider my next steps after graduation.

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

The University offers a variety of opportunities to get involved not only on campus, but with our local communities and institutions as well. These opportunities positively impact these communities and allow students like myself to become more active in Birmingham beyond our campus. The University’s international student population also makes for a vibrant campus life. I can immerse myself in cultures that would not be in my local community back home. Though there is a large student population, I have still managed to maintain a tight knit community through my studies. My professors care about me as an individual and make every effort to help me succeed in my studies. The University encourages and challenges me to pursue my interests rather than making me conform to some cookie-cutter educational model.