Introduction to Artistic Talents
The University College Isle of Man (UCM) has showcased the talents of its aspiring artists in an annual exhibition. The diverse collection of pieces was created by students over a period of 10 weeks and represents the highlight of their courses. Shelly Wernham, program manager for art and design, said that it was a "great opportunity for students to really emphasize in the areas where they are interested". The course was an "opportunity to try more knowledge" and gave the students the trust of making the right choice, she said.
Student Showcase
The exhibition featured works inspired by folklore, the built environment, and the human form. One of the showpieces was inspired by the darker side of folklore. Charlotte Micklefield said that she developed a strong interest in costume design and created a "Giant Monster Suit" inspired by Folklore for her final project. She said, "What also helps is the fact that I can actually carry this and perform it in it." She was inspired by the practical special effects in films like Alien and The Thing and said: "I love horror, it’s so much fun, but it’s so terrifying to bring something like that to live."
Exploring Different Art Forms
Tom Darnill’s final project concentrated on a model that surrounded the modern renovation and reinvention of a Manx-Tholtan. He said that the dilapidated and often delipidated old Manx cottages had triggered the principles of the interior design industry, to which he wanted to join where existing rooms were "repeated" for further use. Sophie Boyde said that she was "not interested" in going to university at school, but she had changed her mind when she worked "in a bank-nine-to-five bank". She said, "I love art, I always loved art and I wish I had taken it earlier." With a place at Liverpool John Moores University secured, she hopes to pursue her interest in interior design.
Future Aspirations
Lula Thomas had focused on painting at school, but experimented with sculpture for her showpiece, "about anthropomorphism and how it influences our understanding of abstract art". She said that she was now "very excited" to take a place at the Glasgow School of Art to study painting and print graphics. The students’ hard work and dedication to their craft were evident in the exhibition, and their future aspirations are sure to take them far in the art world.
Conclusion
The exhibition was a testament to the talents and creativity of the students at UCM. Shelly Wernham said that she was "overwhelmed by the personal trips" that were on the course and added: "I am incredibly proud of every single one of my students." The showcase of the students’ work is accessible to the public on the UCM Homefield Road Campus, and it is a must-see for anyone interested in art and design.
