Can you share some background on yourself and your current studies or role?

I am a First Class BA (Hons) Fine Arts graduate from Arts University Bournemouth. During my studies, I specialized in crafting immersive sculptural forms that function as self-portraiture, exploring education and memory alongside expanding themes of neurology and ecology.

Throughout my degree, I curated and exhibited work across multiple exhibitions and residencies, which I have continued post-graduation, alongside working as a pottery teacher for students with special educational needs.

What made you choose Sotheby’s Institute of Art for your studies?

With the Institute’s honored reputation in the global art market, its direct link to the auction house, and strong industry connections, this program was an opportunity I could not miss. The integration of academic study with in-person learning offered direct exposure to a wide range of curatorial practices, deepening my professional understanding of the contemporary art world.

During the program, I engaged daily with leading industry professionals, translating insights into collaborative group practice during our project planning. This ensured I was not only learning but actively applying curatorial skills with guidance from industry experts.

Furthermore, knowing that we would retain direct contact with our course leaders, even after the course, reaffirmed the Institute’s values in supporting each individual student.

What significance does studying in London hold for you and what was the most interesting thing you learned or experienced during your time there?

As I already live in the United Kingdom, I experience firsthand the breadth of art that London offers. Having the program based here was extremely beneficial, as the ongoing opportunity to visit galleries in person and to speak directly with curators allowed me to engage with works further than what is possible online.

Throughout the program our course leader was exceptionally supportive, answering questions and tailoring guidance individually both during and outside of class. This personalized support demonstrated genuine care and helped consolidate everything we learned as we transition into our early careers.

What were the most valuable skills you gained during the program?

There were many crucial skills gained, however, curatorial proposals stood out most to me. We undertook studies of what makes a strong proposal through examples and critical analysis, alongside examining in-person exhibitions.

In addition, we followed a developmental process of creating our own proposals with detailed feedback and evaluation. This was a key skill as a well-constructed proposal underpins successful exhibitions and funding opportunities.

Describe your favorite day of the program. Where did you go, who did you meet?

My favorite days of the program were those spent visiting curated museums, galleries, and exhibitions. We dedicated significant time to analyzing these spaces, discussing both successes and challenges. This taught us to identify key considerations curators navigate before opening an exhibition.

One particularly impactful day was when curators Bergit Arends and Julie Bentley guided us through three small contemporary exhibitions, where we compared approaches and explored the concepts that brought them to life for audiences.

These exhibitions centered a single artist and explored specific themes. Experiencing varied exhibition models like these allowed me to better place myself in the role of the curator.

What was your day-to-day experience like?

The course took place from Monday through Friday. Each day consisted of a lecture, seminar, guest speaker, and gallery visit, all of which would encompass a specific theme.

This format provided ample time to ask questions and deepen our understanding. Each morning, we reconvened to reflect on discoveries and key insights from the previous day to ensure nothing was missed.

While the program offered a strong structure, it also allowed students the flexibility to progress at their own pace.

How has the program contributed to your growth, either professionally or academically?

This program provided me with a significantly deeper understanding of the art world and everything involved not only in creating art, but in its display and communication with audiences. Hands-on curating practice provided me with skills my bachelor’s degree alone could not.

Gaining this knowledge and feeling so welcomed has given me greater confidence and excitement in my own curatorial practice, allowing me to actively and effectively apply these new skills. The connections formed during my short time have already made a meaningful impact on my career.

Meeting a diverse range of curators and artists at different stages of their professional journeys wholeheartedly defined my experience.