Creative Arts 2018 Medicine Show

Julie Harris, Art and Design lecturer said “So much hard work and effort goes into the show and it’s really rewarding to see the work finally on display.

“The quality of work this year has been particularly high. The creativity and diversity of our students always amazes me, we’ve had a number of mature students this year and it’s created a different kind of balance.”

One of the pieces on display was a stunning portrait of Ayrshire College Principal, Heather Dunk OBE, painted by NC Art and Design student, John Andrew.

John said “I’ve only been painting for two years. I had been out-of-action for a number of years, there was a chain of events and I ended up in prison, that’s when I started drawing.

“In prison, I worked with a charity in Kilmarnock called Catalyst who try to engage ex-prisoners through the arts to change their ways and change their lives. For me it really has changed my life, it has changed it inside out.

“Next year, I’m going on to do the HNC and from there, who knows? I just take each day as it comes.”

Another creative student proving it’s never too late to learn is HNC Art and Design student, Jacquelaine Kennedy. Speaking about her decision to return to college, Jacquelaine said “A lot of things changed in my life and I decided it was time for me to go in a completely different direction and start something new – a new beginning.  I previously worked in complementary therapies, and I have MS so I felt a bit limited in what I could do.

“I have loved working on my art and my lecturers have been fantastic. I’ve gained so much from this course and have become so much more confident.

“I’m going to do the HND next and then, maybe apply for art school. That’s still a long way off, but I’m definitely going to enjoy the HND and see where it leads.”

Also making their mark at the show were several talented young students across the fields of art, fashion, media and photography.

HND Photography Student, Scott Clark, spoke to us ahead of taking up his summer internship with the College marketing team.

Scott was selected for the two-month internship from a shortlist of creative students from the College, following a series of interviews and tasks.