Throughout the course she explored war further .... courses and facilities, as well as ensuring a ...... Working in Adob
10
Aug 2014
Clare Robertson Forging a brand from the ancient craft of blacksmithing
Dr Jennie Jewitt-Harris From doctor to fine artist: combining two unlikely disciplines
Gareth Edwards The Hollywood director on his latest blockbuster, Godzilla
Morris Keyonzo Documenting Kenya’s slums
CREATIVE UPDATE University for the Creative Arts Alumni Magazine
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Contents
Welcome
03
Latest News 04 Clare Robertson 08 MissFire Forges Success Gareth Edwards 12 Unleashing Godzilla
Welcome to Issue Ten
Tola Mohiki 16 Insights Of An Intern UCA Alumni Team Angela Chadwick Head of Corporate Communications Emily Cooper Alumni Relations Thara Sukumaran Database Officer Carys Waters Press & PR Officer Tim Pilgrim Press & PR Officer
[email protected]
Graphic Design & Art Direction by UCA alumni She Was Only www.shewasonly.co.uk
Akram Fahmi 18 Building Luxury
Printed by Asendia.
Jamie Sims 22 Howling Hit
Cover photo by MissFire
Morris Keyonzo 26 Kenya In Focus
Welcome to issue 10 of Creative Update, the magazine of the University for the Creative Arts Alumni Association. According to recent figures published by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS), employment within
Ian Pons-Jewell 30 Setting The Scene
the UK Creative Industries sector has increased five times faster than the national average. This powerful force driving economic growth makes it an exciting time to be a creative
James & Carrie Saunders 32 Home Is Where The Art Is
arts graduate. UCA is always striving to support its students and alumni, and is proud that the institution has risen 33 places in the Complete University Guide league table over
www.ucreative.ac.uk
Jonathan Ramalho 36 Hong Kong
the last two years. The UCA community is going from strength to strength, and the Alumni Association is growing, with now nearly
Laura Nailor 40 The Cat That Got The Screen
35,000 members cross the world. In this edition, we highlight some of the extraordinary success of our alumni as they make their mark and conquer
Dr Jennie Jewitt-Harris 42 The Art Of Medicine
the creative industries. It’s been a bumper couple of months as we have seen Gareth Edwards’ success with ‘Godzilla’ topping box office charts, celebrated UCA’s Chancellor
Reconnect at Rochester 45
Zandra Rhodes receiving the title of Dame in the Queen’s Birthday Honours, had eight students and graduates win
David Haste 46 Stass Paraskos
at the Goldsmiths’ Crafts & Design Awards, and applauded our largest ever cohort of students graduating at the Royal Festival Hall in London.
Creative Spotlight 50
It’s fantastic to be able to recognise and support our alumni’s achievements and we are grateful to all those who have helped contribute to this issue of Creative Update.
Above Jonathan and Oliver at Shek ‘O Beach
We hope that you like the new and improved look of the magazine, and if you have some exciting updates or stories that you would like to be featured in a future edition, then please do get in touch.
Right Still from ‘Howl’ by Jamie Sims
The UCA Alumni Team
[email protected]
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News
News
Interior Architecture graduates win Another Design International Award
Stuck between Iraq and a Hard Place Recent BA (Hons) Glass graduate Naomi Symmonds’ degree has been a kind of therapy for her after the tragic death of her brother Chris, who died whilst serving in the army in Iraq in 2003. She has created her final piece titled ‘Stuck between Iraq and a Hard Place’ to commemorate all the lives lost in the Iraq War.
creating anti-war signs, followed by a piece inspired by conspiracy theories and consumerism. As a culmination of her journey, she then developed the idea for her final piece. ‘Stuck between Iraq and a Hard Place’ consists of a 2 metre by 1.6 metre concrete wall, representative of the blast walls that divide Baghdad. One of the panels is glass
“My work is a metaphor of the passion I
with two distinct sides; one side is highly
feel about the inequalities and injustices
polished and reflective, representing
that take place in the world, particularly
the commemoration of western troops
referencing the atrocities of war,” said
and the respect they are associated with
Naomi. “I feel to highlight these atrocities
after fighting for their country, and the
is necessary to ensure that the devastation
other side is textured, broken and shot at,
of the livelihood of innocent civilians is not
representing the destruction of Iraq since
forgotten”. Naomi was 13 when her brother
the war began.
Chris died whilst defusing live-cluster bombs in a field in Iraq. The Glass degree project briefs gave
“My work aims to represent a postmodernist decline in values – a socialcultural shift in ideals,” said Naomi.
At this year’s graduation ceremonies, Interior Architecture alumnus Pal Pang presented the Another Design International Award and runner-up prize to two graduating BA (Hons) Interior Architecture & Design students Isa Gustafsson (pictured left) and Anna Houston (pictured centre). Pal, originally from Hong Kong, graduated from UCA in 2001 and now runs his own design consultancy, Another Design International. Pal decided he wanted to contribute something to inspire the next generation of designers. "I received an award myself when I was at UCA which helped to keep me motivated, so I was keen to give something to the students as they start their careers in the industry," said Pal. "Anna and Isa's designs were chosen based on their creativity and timelessness. The concepts captured a real sense of beauty, which is what I believe is our key role as designers." The UCA alumnus has just set up a London office for his international award-winning consultancy.
UCA storms Goldsmiths' Craft & Design Awards 2014 UCA students picked up a wealth of awards at this year's Goldsmiths' Craft & Design Awards, held at Goldsmiths Hall. Eight prizes were awarded to students, with another two being commended, and four prizes were awarded to recent graduates, with a further five commended. Crafts tutor, Lynne Maclachlan, also received an
plant, and she developed the ‘Reversible
award for Production Jewellery.
Drinking Set’ idea from research into
The annual event, recognised as the
historic glass and patterns created within
"Oscars of the industry" in Craft and
water. To create the pieces, Kyosun fitted
Design, was hosted by ex-BBC presenter
together several separate layers of silver
Kay Alexander and supported by a number
then manipulated a number of wires
of trade companies and associations.
precisely so they could be soldered on. She
Three final year students hailing from BA (Hons) Silversmithing Goldsmithing & Jewellery at UCA
then provided extra texture with pattern between each wire. Kyosun commented: "The awards
Rochester secured eight awards between
ceremony was an amazing evening and I
them. Gemma Main received the College
was very surprised to win! So many people
Silver Bullion Grant, Kanella Vlachou won
came up and congratulated me. I was
an award for her Gallery Jewellery entry
encouraged to enter the competition by
‘Headpiece, Human Blinkers’ and Kyosun
tutors at UCA, and I'm so pleased I did as
Jung (pictured right) won won six awards,
it's been very rewarding."
including a grant from the Goldsmiths'
"We're extremely proud that UCA
Company, the overall Junior Award for
students had such huge successes at
her ‘Sake Set’ and The Podolsky Award for
this year's Goldsmiths' Craft & Design
her ‘Reversible Drinking Set’ and ‘Sake Set’
Awards, especially considering the large
(pictured above right).
number of entries," said Grant McCaig,
Kyosun's ‘Sake Set’ design was inspired
Silversmithing, Goldsmithing & Jewellery
Naomi (pictured above) the freedom
“Through my work, I wish to provoke
to explore areas of interest to her,
polemic arguments and discussions about
unearthing an array of repressed emotions.
topics which we appear to be desensitised
in the winners but also help them raise
Throughout the course she explored war
to in western society.”
their own profile as they embark on their
further, looking into the legalities of war,
by the shapes and structures on a bamboo
lecturer. "Awards like this instill confidence
careers as craft makers."
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06
News
News
BAFTA Haul for UCA Alumni
UCA Climbs University Rankings UCA has moved up 24 places in The Complete University Guide 2015, making it the highest climber in the table. Vice-Chancellor Simon Ofield-Kerr said: “The increase recognises the longstanding real strengths of UCA and has been delivered by both investing in our courses and facilities, as well as ensuring a more level playing field across the sector when it comes to submitting the data on which league tables are based. This result is a testament to the talent and dedication of UCA staff and the extraordinary achievements of our students. “New contemporary spaces, like The Elaine Thomas Library at UCA Farnham, reflect our dedication to developing creative communities by providing our students with some of the best facilities designed specifically to produce great creative work.” The Complete University Guide is designed to provide University applicants with accurate and independent information on UK Universities, and the data for the rankings have been derived from official sources. UCA now sits at position 62 in the table of 123 UK Universities.
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Dominic Mitchell (above right) and Mark Towns (above left), who both studied BA (Hons) Film Production at UCA Farnham, picked up their awards at the BAFTA TV Craft Awards at The Brewery in the City of London in May.
optioned it, and they really championed it. And here we are,” said Dominic. Mark Towns meanwhile collected the award for Best Editing – Factual for his work on the Channel 4 fly-on-the-wall series ‘Educating Yorkshire’, which follows
Sports Photographer Sets her Sights on Charitable Exhibition
the everyday lives of staff and students at a Dominic, who collected the BAFTA for Best Writer – Drama for his BBC 3 series ‘In The
Dewsbury School. Mark, whose previous credits include
Flesh’, said in an interview with BAFTA:
‘The Apprentice’ and ‘Coppers’, told
“It was the first TV script I’d ever written,
BAFTA: “It was an amazing show to work
so just to get it made was just amazing,
on. Originally I wasn’t actually going to
so this now is just incredible, it’s a dream
work on it, but I came in to do five weeks
come true really.”
assembling for them, but as I saw more and
‘In The Flesh’, which aired in March 2013, is a reimagining of the ‘zombie-
Despite finding success within the fields of commercial and editorial photography, alumna Rebecca Andrews’ (pictured above right) current focus is a long-term exhibition in collaboration with the Kent Association for the Blind (KAB).
London Fashion Week and the BBC. Combining her personal hobbies with professional endeavors, Rebecca now specialises in sports photography, and regularly undertakes exciting projects for clients such as the Glasgow 2014 Commonwealth Games and the
more, I thought, “I’ll put another job back,”
The exhibition, which runs throughout
so ended up doing 10 or 12 weeks.”
2014, aims to challenge misconceptions
International Weightlifting Federation. As somewhat of a departure from
Talking about the editing process,
about living with sight loss through a series
bodybuilding events, sporting arenas and
is rehabilitated back into the local
Mark said: “They had 50 cameras and they
of black and white portraits, which highlight
athletics tracks, Rebecca found the KAB
community following The Rising.
were shooting for 30 days from seven in
the diversity of the experiences and lives of
project - an idea that she developed and
the morning until five at night.
those who suffer from visual impairment.
pitched herself - genuinely inspiring.
apocalypse’ in which a teenage ‘rotter’
The show originally came after Dominic took part in a BBC Writer’s Rooms
“I was quite lucky because I came on
Rebecca has a long-standing association
She said: “It was a truly remarkable
scheme, from which the resulting script
mid-way through the process. They had
with UCA, having completed two BA
opportunity to meet such wonderful
was commissioned.
the teacher, but they weren’t sure if they
(Hons) degrees, and an MA in Fine Art:
people. I am very proud to be part of
could make a film out of him, so I was
Artists’ Film, Video & Photography, at the
something that is helping raise awareness
the chance on an idea. I hadn’t written
given maybe about eight scenes to cut, and
Maidstone campus. Since completing her
for such a fantastic cause.”
anything for TV before, and then Hilary
we thought, ‘yeah, there’s definitely a film
studies, she has quickly made a name for
Martin and Simon Judd, who are with
in him,’ so it turned out to be very good.”
herself as a freelance photographer, working
“They took a chance on me, they took
BBC North, they took a chance on it, they
on commissions for the likes of Mercedes UK,
To view Rebecca’s work, visit her website: www.rebecca-andrews.co.uk
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Feature
Alumni Name
MissFire Forges Success Clare Robertson BA(Hons) Three-Dimensional Design: Metalwork and Jewellery, Farnham, 2004
Within the Clearwell Cave’s ancient iron mine in the Forest of Dean is a workshop where MissFire spends her days creating unique items in metal using traditional forging methods alongside more modern techniques.
Clare said: “Visits to Spain exposed me to the architectural work of Antoni Gaudi and Frank Gehry and I just loved the impressive scale of sculptures by Anthony Gormley and Louise Bourgeois. It was soon clear that metal was the direction that I wanted to take my life in.”
MissFire is the creative brand of BA (Hons)
In 2004, whilst studying at UCA Farnham,
Three-Dimensional Design: Metalwork &
Clare found her imagination was opened up
Jewellery alumna Clare Robertson. She said: “I
to the possibilities of manipulating metal. She
was always more curious about metalwork than
dedicated her time to “reading every book on
glass or ceramics when looking through art and
blacksmithing in the library.”
craft books. I was intrigued to know how these
Clare said: “A highlight of my time at
things were made and was interested in the
university was when The Worshipful Company
potential of the metal which could be structural,
of Pewterers ran a competition called Pewter
practical and ornamental. It seemed so
Live. It was an opportunity to change the
versatile, resilient and enduring. I was excited to
perceived image of pewter from dull tarnished
think about making things bigger than me and
tankards to bright, versatile and beautiful
that would survive longer.”
objects. I designed a therapeutic oil burner
‘Beachwood Bell’, 2010
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Feature
Clare Robertson
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and was spotted by one of the judges, Geoff Kayson, owner of Alchemy Gothic; a company I had idolised since an early teen. He liked my design so much that he invited me up to his workshop in Leicester to design a gothic version which his company would manufacture and sell. This was such a huge boost to my confidence and a chance to experience the real world!” Clare found herself at a major turning point in her professional career when she designed and created a centerpiece for a show garden at Hampton Court Flower Show in 2007. She subsequently decided to break away from steady employment with an architectural metalwork company on the outskirts of London and took a leap of faith creating her own brand and her own business. Clare said: “It was so important to me to be working under my own name and pursuing the artistic and sculptural side of the craft so I just decided to take the plunge while still young and enthusiastic and passionate about what I do.” Six years later, with 10 years blacksmithing experience under her belt, MissFire has developed an impressive portfolio that consists of work that she has made for clients on commission and also more speculative art pieces that reflect her own style and taste; a mixture of art nouveau with a gothic twist. Clare’s inspiration for her work is found in the rural part of the country that she lives in. She said: “Mother Nature is an inexhaustible source of inspiration and I try to make my work organic and full of life.” Recent sculptures
develop into chalk designs and the selection of
include an underwater scene of an otter
metal bars. I then begin the process of cutting
chasing a school of fish through reeds entitled
the metal to length, forging and forming it to
‘School Dinners’, and also her largest piece to
the required shapes and assembling it to create
date which required working alongside a local
a final piece before being either polished,
primary school. The project involved creating
painted or galvanised. My preference is
a tree featuring leaves, birds, spiders, frogs,
always to retain the beautiful subtle textures
butterflies and flowers. Clare labels this as
of the bare metal wherever possible. I try to
her proudest and most exciting achievement
introduce colour to my work and have been
to date and describes how she was invited
using specialist paints to finish flower-themed
back to the school after the tree had been
sculptures to great effect.”
completed, where the pupils sang her a song about the tree. The ancient craft of blacksmithing is one
Being a female blacksmith has led to some mixed responses. She said: “You have to be thick-skinned and have a sense of humour
which many find both completely unfamiliar
about it. I find it much easier now that I have
and fascinating. Clare said: “The idea for a
an impressive portfolio behind me and can
piece is born from rough drawings, which then
therefore prove my ability. Blacksmithing is
Top left ‘Fish Supper’ Collaborative sculpture with woodcarver Peter Walwin, 2011
difficult whether you are male or female; we all have our own limitations and tailor our work to suit our strengths and weaknesses. As an art form blacksmithing is a level playing field, we are hard-working, open-minded, and determined, and these qualities are not
Top right Wall Sculpture made for Cooper’s Edge School, Gloucester, 2013 Left ‘Celtic Rose’ centerpiece, 2011
gender specific.” Looking to the future, Clare aspires to have her own independent workshop with space for a MissFire gallery.
To view MissFire’s portfolio and see her upcoming exhibition dates, visit her website at www.missfire.co.uk
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Feature
Alumni Name 13 Gareth (middle) with Bryan Cranston and Aaron Taylor-Johnson
Gareth Edwards’ Monster Movie Career
Unleashing Godzilla At the bottom of page seven of the 1996 Farnham Film School graduation show programme sits an unassuming quote from a young student filmmaker. “For the first time ever, digital technology is allowing film students to create virtually any image. Our aim is to show just what is possible with a relatively small amount of money and a little imagination.” It’s the kind of quote that you often see in a degree show programme, a few choice words from a student keen to express their final piece of work - their last hurrah to formal education. For some, the show is the end of the line; afterwards they drift off to do other things, often within the industry, occasionally not. But for others, like the young filmmaker behind ‘Arrivals’– the film to which that quote was attached – it’s the launch of an exceptional career, where showing ‘just what is possible’ is part of the job description. “Do you know what’s funny about that film?” reminisced Gareth Edwards, UCA alumnus and the director of ‘Arrivals’. “It was a monster movie!”
Gareth Edwards BA (Hons) Film Production, Farnham, 1996
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Feature
Gareth Edwards
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Left Gareth (right) with Ken Wantanabe Right & Below Stills from ‘Godzilla’ Production images courtesy of Warner Bros. and Legendary Pictures
work had made ‘Godzilla’ – which featured a cast and crew of hundreds and a reported budget of $150m – the hardest thing he’d ever done. Monster movies are very much Gareth’s thing. So much so, when Legendary Pictures were looking for someone to take the reins for a
in the business, so it was easy to hand over that baby to them.” Having listed Steven Spielberg’s ‘Jaws’ and
reboot of the iconic monster movie ‘Godzilla’, he
Ridley Scott’s ‘Alien’ among his influences,
was the only man they needed to ask.
Gareth clearly defined his vision before
“Dreaming of the film is a lot of fun – it’s where you can just close your eyes and imagine everything you want to say. Showing the film is a lot of fun. But the middle bit feels like war. “You do a small film, there’s five of you.
accepting the director’s chair. His ‘Godzilla’ was
You enter this massive movie where there’s
Picture’s Thomas Tull in 2010 with his aptly
to be more suspenseful and serious than the
300 people, it makes a massive difference. You
named flick ‘Monsters’, a shoe-string movie
other 28 previous adaptations.
drive onto set and you’re in a bubble. They drive
He’d caught the attention of Legendary
for which he earned a BAFTA nomination and
The original movie, released in Japan in
you straight to the camera and you don’t meet
1954, was an allegory for the destruction caused
anybody. All you speak to all day long is the
by the nuclear bombs dropped on Hiroshima
assistant director, the cameraman and the actors.
‘relatively small amount’ of just $800,000,
and Nagasaki, an act which ultimately led to
You literally just know five people. The most
Gareth had to take a do-it-yourself approach.
Japanese surrender in World War Two. Gareth
embarrassing thing is I go to wrap parties and I
Not only did he write and direct the film, but he
maintains that that was still the most serious of
don’t know anybody.”
created all of the visual effects in his bedroom
the ‘Godzilla’ movies, and the one he wished to
- a feat for which he was described as “David
most closely emulate.
widespread critical acclaim. To keep ‘Monsters’ costs down to the
to the Goliath of the Hollywood special effects
“Right at the beginning we sat down and
It’s all a long way from the 1996 graduation show programme in which Gareth first laid down his filmmaking plans. It’s a point he admits he’s
said, ‘what is this film about?’ I like to take
still struggling to accept as he prepares to unleash
things seriously – The disaster [Godzilla] would
his ‘Godzilla’ on the world, and in doing so, take
the 960 visual effects for ‘Godzilla’ on his home
be terrible, like the Second World War or worse.
his place in the world of the Hollywood elite.
computer, it would have taken 445 years – a task
It would be an emotional, life-changing event
too big even for him.
and we wanted to show that. It’s most fun for
surreal that if I think about it for too long I either
the audience to believe what they see and be
start to get emotional or I start to get the shakes
part of the world.”
or something. I can’t process it.”
industry” by film critic Mark Kermode. By contrast, had Gareth attempted to render
“I kept saying, ‘can I just do one shot for old time’s sake?’ And they kept saying, ‘yeah yeah yeah.’ But after the first week it was clear it was never going to happen, there just wasn’t time.” “But we had the best visual effects people
“I never expected this to happen. It’s so
Setting the tone for the movie turned out to be the easy part however, with Gareth admitting that the step up from his previous low-budget
‘Godzilla’ was released in cinemas nationwide on May 16 and is out on DVD on September 16.
Feature
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Tola Mohiki Tola Mohiki BA (Hons) Fashion Design, Rochester, 2012
Left Tola, image courtesy of People Tree
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Internships are perfect places for learning, making contacts and friends and showing your skills and your potential. They’re also good for getting a real taste of the industry and perhaps
Below right Tola’s Handmade Portfolio
identifying things that you don’t want to do.
My Future I am currently employed by the fashion charity FARA, who provide care services for disadvantaged children and families in Romania. We have just opened a shop where we make new clothes from donated fabrics and all profits go to the charity. I’ve been there almost from the beginning; I make clothes, design accessories, and will soon be teaching workshops. I’m living the dream. It makes me smile to think that I’m actually being paid to do
Insights of an Intern
something that I love, I feel a little bit guilty! In my spare time I’m working hard to develop a little brand of my own accessories and probably menswear too but I’m also trying to learn more about making lingerie as this is something that has inspired me for years. In a few years I would like to work for a big company like Reiss on the technical team, and I have strong ambitions to spend some time working in a tailoring house. I will be satisfied as long as I am doing what I love doing and in
Fashion Design alumnus Tola Mohiki talks to Creative Update about his time working as an intern after graduating in 2012 and how he is now pursuing a career in ethical and fair trade fashion.
My Internship month internship at People Tree Sustainable and Fair Trade Fashion label. An average day as a garment tech intern involved pattern tracing and a lot of in-depth feedback and
My UCA
technical drawings for the producers. When
My time at UCA really helped me to develop and
a new sample came in I got to scrutinise
taught me the value of craftsmanship as well as
it and offer suggestions to improve the
the importance of excellent equipment. Having
garment. Towards the end of my time there
now graduated and worked with various people
I got involved in the menswear side of things
in various locations I can now really appreciate
and I was involved in some design meetings,
how fantastic the facilities were at UCA. The vast
choosing fabrics and colours, etc. Getting some
printing spaces, the numerous looms and the
of my designs for People Tree into production
advanced photography department at Farnham
felt amazing. I love knowing that people are
in particular had a massive impact on me.
wearing clothes that once started off just as
Anybody that knows me now knows that I love a
ideas in my mind.
good pair of scissors or a high-tech machine. I’ve
My biggest piece of advice to anyone
just invested in a fancy new iron like the ones
graduating this year is to keep working hard,
that we had in the sewing rooms at Rochester.
stay motivated, do not give up, push yourself
More importantly however, my time at
some way making the world a better place.
After I graduated, I managed to get a six
and always remember your roots and where you
UCA has taught me the value of hard work,
started from. Once you’re through the door, let
dedication and commitment.
your work do the talking.
Want to read more from Tola? Visit his blog at tmohiki.tumblr.com
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Akram Fahmi
Feature
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Building Luxury
by Akram Fahmi
Akram Fahmi BA (Hons) Architecture RIBA Part 1, Canterbury 2007
After studying for eight years at the UCA Canterbury School of Architecture, Akram Fahmi now works for ReardonSmith Architects in London Bridge, working on luxury five-star hotels in London and abroad.
Postgraduate Diploma RIBA Part 2, Canterbury, 2011
I managed to secure a job after graduation relatively quickly. I just jumped at the opportunity and I now work on some really exciting projects at ReardonSmith Architects.
Masters of Architecture, Canterbury, 2012
I am Project Lead Designer and am currently working on a redevelopment job in Sloane Square in London. We are converting an 1880s five-storey mansion house into a 50 bedroom boutique luxury hotel. Another project of mine is a 170 room hotel in the heart of Tbilisi, in Georgia. I am taking a stunning large 19th century neo-classical building and creating it into a hotel. In the near future, ReardonSmith Architects will be opening the luxury Beaumont Hotel in
Lobby of the Four Seasons Hotel in Baku
Mayfair, which includes a habitable sculpture designed by Anthony Gormley. The sculpture
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Akram Fahmi
Feature
“My ambitions are to keep progressing and to make sure that every step I take is upwards, and not sideways” is of a man crouching and is attached to the
all becoming adjustable and user-specific.
outside of the building, forming part of the
Everything will be smartphone controlled.
hotel’s guest suites. It’s such a surreal space
The Canterbury School of Architecture
– imagine having a bed inside a Trojan horse.
at UCA was unlike any other university
It will be a fantastic and novel experience for
experience. My father is a Civil Engineer
everyone who stays in there!
and my mother is an Interior Designer so my
My days are spent mostly working on plan
family environment has always been creative,
Above Four Seasons Hotel in Baku
the RIBA and the Institute for Contemporary Arts in London. To date, this stands as one of my proudest achievements, closely followed by a Commendation in the prestigious Evolo
Right Above The Beaumont Hotel in London
Skyscraper competition in 2011, and my RIBA SouthEast Award for Excellence. My ultimate career goal has always been to run and own my own practice. My ambitions
layouts from the early stages of development
and I was instantly drawn to UCA for this
right through to the detailed design and
reason. The state-of-the-art facilities available
problem-solving the technical elements. I have
at UCA, the 3D printing equipment, laser
opportunities to travel to sites, often abroad,
cutting, photo studios and fantastic library
I remember a quote from Paul Arden that
and there is a real sense of achievement seeing
resources were practically unheard of at any
inspired me during my degree: “When it can’t
your drawings come to life, and physically
other university. I was working with one of
be done, do it. If you don’t do it, it doesn’t exist.”
seeing the space that you have spent months or
the most talented, enthusiastic and dedicated
This quote has always given me the impetus
sometimes years drawing.
group of tutors I have ever come across.
to strive for the top. There are always surprises
Lecturers such as Allan Atlee, John Bell and
along the way, and I would never have imagined
ever-changing and evolving. The latest trend
Oliver Froome-Lewis created a sense of calm,
working for the company I do. Things have a
in hotel design is the ability to adapt to new
confidence and direction, and really pushed
way of falling into place, but you need to be
technologies. Guests expect a lot more these
me to achieve my best. The hard work paid off
ready to grasp the opportunities when they do.
days, and the ability to control all elements
and I was nominated for the RIBA Presidents
of the guest experience in hotels is becoming
Medals, and was awarded the Bronze Medal,
more important. Room temperature, room
Paul Davis Award for Urban Landscape for my
service, water temperature and concierge are
final year project. It went on to be exhibited at
I think that hotels, by nature, are transient,
Right Bottom The Savoy in London
are to keep progressing and to make sure that every step I take is upwards, and not sideways.
To keep up to date with Akram’s current work and future projects, visit: www.afahmi.tumblr.com
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Feature
Despite having only recently graduated, 2013 Film Production alumnus Jamie Sims has already created an impressive show reel, with many of his short films receiving noteworthy honours that someone years into their career would be proud of.
Jamie Sims
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Jamie Sims BA (Hons) Film Production, Farnham, 2013
The plot of Jamie’s graduation film ‘Howl’ surrounds a schoolteacher who unravels a dark secret behind the unusual relationship between her new pupil and a mysterious stranger. ‘Howl’ has enjoyed notable successes, including being screened at the British Film Institute BKSTS Awards, The Portobello Road Film Festival, and nominated for the ‘Golden Tadpole Award’ at the Camerimage Festival (Poland) in 2013. To bring ‘Howl’s run to a full year-long circle, Jamie’s film won Best Horror/Thriller, Best Screenplay, and was nominated for Best Film at the ScreenTest National Student Film Festival Awards 2014.
2013 Graduate Proves Howling Hit
Still from 'Howl'
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Feature
Jamie Sims
Jamie also won the BKSTS/National Media
Jamie, and were two of only 140 short films to
Museum Student Widescreen Film of the Year,
be selected for the London Short Film Festival
and to top it all off, ‘Howl’ was one of four films
(LSFF) from a pool of around 1,200 submissions.
nominated for a Learning on Screen Award & FE
Jamie was delighted to see his work
Award by the British Universities Film & Video
transition to the big screen. He said: “I was
Council at the British Film Institute.
thrilled that two of my short films were
In regards to ‘Howl’s future, Jamie said:
selected for the LSFF. It was amazing to see
Top Left Jamie on the set of ‘Milkshake Courage’, image courtesy of James Taylor-Meme Left and Right Stills from ‘Howl’
When asked about his main influences when
25
worked with crews made up of my graduating
creating his films, Jamie replied: “My films are
year. I always felt like I had support and advice
pretty eclectic and range from cute romantic
from the staff, and now that I’ve graduated the
comedies like ‘Unhappy Hour’ to the darker
support is still there.”
psychological thriller ‘Howl’. A lot of my shorts
Jamie is currently working on a screenplay
have been made for contests and so follow a
for an adaptation of Hamlet with actor Sam
brief but with all of these I’ve tried to relate back
Underwood. He said: “A big problem with
to my own experiences and thoughts. ‘Beach
Shakespeare is that his characters explain
“It would be nice to see it on a big screen but
them in a cinema and to be part of the viewing
the next step is to plan for its online release, so
audience. This kind of opportunity is a huge
Potato’ deals with my obsession with television,
their motives too much and so as a screen
watch this space! Howl has been a huge lesson
part of why I am a filmmaker and being able to
and ‘Milkshake Courage’ is dedicated to the
writer I need to simplify this, and because I
for me every step of the way, from its creation,
witness people’s reactions first-hand was really
utter stain and fear of asking a girl out on a date,
am using the original Shakespeare text, the
to bring it to life, then to the festival circuit and
rewarding.”
while ‘Monster Problem’ is about a big monster
process involves some meticulous cutting and
trying to sleep but is scared of the little girl
manipulating of scenes.”
now thinking about releasing it. I’m so proud of
Jamie has now set his sights on directing his
under the bed.”
the attention it has got from festivals, audiences
first feature-length film. He is on his third draft
and fellow filmmakers. It’s been an incredibly
of the script and hopes to use some of his prize
humbling experience.”
money from his winning film ‘Unhappy Hour’
said: “UCA challenged me and taught me the
(at the Beefeater Gin My London Film contest
importance of team work and collaboration.
2013) in order to develop and make it.
I’ve made several shorts since graduation and
Alongside this, ‘Beach Potato’ and ‘Sex By Numbers’ were also written and directed by
Looking back on his time at UCA, Jamie
To keep up to date with his work and Jamie’s future ventures, visit his website: www.jamie-sims.com
26
Feature
Morris Keyonzo
27
Despite having photographed many high-profile individuals, Kenyan photographer and UCA alumnus Morris Keyonzo prefers to capture ordinary African scenes of culture and has documented life in Kenya’s slums. Now a lecturer at the University of Nairobi School of Journalism and the Technical University of Kenya School of Information & Communication, he tells Creative Update how he combines teaching with his own practice.
How did you find the transition from Nairobi to UCA Farnham? Before leaving Africa to study at UCA, I was
Morris' journalism students
What does an average day look like for you? Hectic but sometimes smooth! Imagine rushing from giving a lesson to students and the
working as a technician and pursuing a diploma
next hour being on a photo shoot. My days are
in graphic design at the Kenya Polytechnic
never the same and never predictable. One day I
in Nairobi. The Polytechnic nominated me
am shooting a glamour fashion set, and the next
for a British Council TCDY Award to study
day I have my eye and camera fixed on the harsh
Photography at UCA Farnham and this marked
reality of poverty in a remote area of Africa. It’s
the start of my journey to becoming a career
easy to get caught between the fantasy world
photographer.
of advertising and the real world. This is when
I moved to Farnham with an open mind, and
I seek solace in my own art photography where
as a mature student at 26 years old, I got over
I photograph what inspires me within African
the culture shock pretty fast and made as many
nature and wildlife, as well as cityscapes and
friends as I could. I could often be seen sharing
the urban poor.
a joke in the cafeteria or having a cup of tea
Kenya in Focus
with the Director at the time, Norman Taylor. I really made the most of my time at Farnham
Morris Keyonzo BA (Hons) Photography, Film, Video & Animation, Farnham, 1989
and I enjoyed touring other departments to
What aspects of your work do you enjoy the most? My work enables me to appreciate the
get inspired or just to know something about
diversity of life and learn something new about
printmaking, glass, painting, metal sculpture,
other people’s professions and cultures. I find
jewellery, ceramics and textiles.
photography incredibly healing and rewarding.
The course itself gave me the invaluable
I prefer photographing ordinary people. They
hands-on practical experience that prepared me
tend to reveal more human aspects of life and
for the real industry. All the wonderful people
are more responsive to their surroundings.
that I worked with at Farnham were always
A memorable example was when I was in
there for me to see that I succeeded, and I am
a nomadic village in Northern Kenya when a
grateful indeed that I met them.
kitchen hut caught fire. The villagers watched
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Feature
Alumni Name
helpless as the fire consumed the grass structure with everything in it except for the pot that was already cooking on the open fire. There was hardly any water they could use to put out the fire in this semi-arid environment. There have been many instances where I have captured ordinary Africans in various situations and under different degrees of struggle. Each of them has made me think about how we should never take our own or anyone else’s life for granted. Having said this, I have had the pleasure of photographing some high-profile individuals such as the President of Tanzania, the former President of Kenya, the actor James Earl Jones, and South-African musician Hugh Masekela. Photography has opened my eyes to a delicate understanding of human nature. When I photograph people, I am aware that I am pointing the camera at myself. I shoot these people the way I would like to be photographed if I were standing in their place.
What are your proudest achievements? I would say that I am most proud of being one of the first Kenyans to study a degree in Photography 24 years ago. I have used my degree to contribute towards the alleviation of poverty through the work I have done for both local authorities and non-governmental organisations. One example of this was in 2006 when I was briefed to observe and capture through my camera lens Ant & Dec’s special fundraising mission to the Kibera Slum in Nairobi. I photographed how the duo responded to their environment, away from the TV
It has influenced Nairobi’s fashion photography,
glamour life that they are used to.
an area that is gradually emerging as an
My photography aims to bring about positive change, hope, and possibly a smile on
important creative industry. Through my teaching over the years I have
a child’s face, a mother’s face or a father’s face
adopted the role of mentor to many young
where there has previously been none. My role
Kenyans. If I have one goal for the future it is to
as a photographer is fundamentally to create
see my students use photography to fulfill their
images that carry the message effectively in
dreams and become better citizens. I always tell
promoting the work of the non-governmental
them that the ‘best shot’ is the one they haven’t
organisations fighting poverty and creating
yet captured. I suppose I shall still be looking for
awareness both locally and abroad.
my best shot in a few years to come.
My work has also helped to develop and promote some of Kenya’s leading young musicians and local celebrities.
Top Ant & Dec in Kibera slum
See more of Morris’ work at www.fananpicha.odpodev.com
Bottom Morris Keyonzo Right Morris’ photograph of a Kenyan school teacher
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30
Feature
Ian Pons Jewell
31
“Take every opportunity to keep making new work, and make the most of working with like-minded people” Ian finds that the location of his sets is
Film Festival, and most recently being chosen
“Locations often spur on my ideas, and they
by FANT Bilbao Film Festival, where it had its
are always there in my mind as an element that
world premiere at their 20th anniversary closing
inspires me. I don’t like to build sets or heavily
ceremony. Ian said: “FANT was wonderful. It’s
dress places, preferring to capture the real-
always a bit nerve-wracking to see how a film
life essence of the location. For example, with
will be received but they loved it so much, and
New York, which was the setting for the next
it was a brilliant experience to present our film
Naughty Boy video that I directed, there were
to the press.”
no major set designs or studios. We simply let the authentic landscapes speak for themselves.” Location also played a large part in Ian’s
Setting the Scene After being launched into the spotlight with the success of his music video for ‘La La La’ by Naughty Boy featuring Sam Smith, we catch up with Film alumnus Ian Pons Jewell to chat about his latest projects and what it’s like to film in exotic locations.
by cinematographer and UCA alumnus Doug Walshe, Ian’s regular collaborator. He said: “It’s just a very different way of working out there. In Bolivia everything is open
profile as a filmmaker and the label provides you with the funds to go ahead and make what
Castle and the building that Studio Murmur,
is essentially a short film, which can be really
Ian’s working film company, has been based in
helpful as traditional film funding routes can
since 2009. The Studio Murmur team varies but
be very time consuming and hard to come by.” graduated film students is: “Take every
El-Chamaa.
opportunity to keep making new work, and
Nicknamed ‘The Bank’, the building has
people. I still collaborate with fellow UCA
Ian said: “The space was very large and
graduates today and the whole environment at
had a great vibe to it. It’s really surreal and
the Farnham campus was invaluable. It really
dark, which has had a very big influence on
gave me confidence when I stepped into the
developing my style.”
real working world. Be ready to hit the ground
‘Angels’ follows the fictional owner of bowling alley, who is looking to pass on his
also in an active, busy police station with no
role to a replacement, showing him the ropes
Since graduating in 2006, Ian has made a name
problems at all. There are very little restrictions
in a farcical and bizarre manner. It was filmed
for himself directing music videos for the likes
when filming in Bolivia, however the pace is
in 2012, completed in 2013, and is enjoying
of DJ Shadow, Crystal Fighters, Tinie Tempah,
different. The whole process of production
numerous successes, having been selected for
Anna Calvi and Teef. His most successful video,
can be longer and involves more face-to-face
‘La La La’ won both “Best Song” and “Best
meetings rather than doing work via email. “Over here, I could make an entire video
amazing experience. All of the elements seemed
forced to meet people, find actors and locations
to fit into place and I’m really proud of the video
through word of mouth, and so forth, which I
that was created.”
think is a good thing. By contrast in the UK, for
‘La La La’ was filmed entirely in La Paz,
example, everything can be very automated,
Salar de Uyuni and Potosi in Bolivia, and was a
which doesn’t allow as many ‘happy accidents’
completely new experience for Ian. It was shot
to happen.”
make the most of working with like-minded
played a key role as the company has evolved.
to do some filming down a working mine and
without leaving my room, but in Bolivia you are
Ian’s advice to current or recently-
Matt Wash, Matt King, Doug Walshe and Ghandi
the Elephant and Castle shopping mall and
Ian said: “The Naughty Boy video was an
genre and medium to work in. It raises your
which pays tribute to the area of Elephant and
and really flexible. For example, we were able
Video” at the 2013 MOBO Awards.
Looking ahead, Ian plans to continue making music videos. He said: “It’s a fantastic
current focus, a short film called ‘Angels’,
includes fellow UCA alumni Dobi Manolova,
Ian Pons Jewell BA (Hons) Film Production, Farnham, 2006
the London Short Film Festival, the East End
crucial to the final outcome of his work. He said:
running, and retain the essence of what defines you as a filmmaker.”
To see Ian’s videos and showreel visit: www.ianponsjewell.com and to keep up to date with his new work visit: www.facebook.com/ipjewell
Left & Below Stills from the video ‘La La La’ by Naughty Boy ft. Sam Smith
32
Feature
James and Carrie Saunders met at UCA Farnham (then known as the Surrey Institute of Art and Design) in 2003. In the 12 years or so that have followed, the pair have moved in together, got married, and founded Little Moose– a web-based business selling unique gifts and charming jewellery. Here, James and Carrie chat to us about their story and their efforts to transition Little Moose from a re-seller of distinctive items to a niche brand for their own delightful characterbased jewellery and accessories. How did you first meet? James: We met at UCA when we began
James & Carrie Saunders 33 Little Moose's most recent collection
Home is Where the Art is
taking lessons together following a course merge. After becoming friends, we started dating and have been together ever since!
Carrie: Being part of the tight-knit creative community at UCA Farnham meant that we were surrounded by like-minded people. The fact that James was on my wave length creatively meant that we had an automatic connection, something that has played an important part in our relationship and our business ever since.
How did your relationship and careers progress after graduation? James: Although some people drift apart when they leave university and move onto the next phase of their lives, Carrie and I stayed
James & Carrie Saunders BA (Hons) Graphic Communication, Farnham, 2004
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Feature
James & Carrie Saunders Carrie: It was a difficult, not to mention
“It’s amazing to be able to work with someone who you’re so comfortable with and so in-sync with creatively”
where Little Moose stock is made up almost
2013 James quit his job at the agency, where he
entirely of our products and you can find Little
had worked for almost a decade, to run Little
Moose designs in retail outlets around the world.
Moose full-time. I reduced my hours at Disaster
know it could be, then there could be some very
that I too could give the business the attention
exciting times ahead. The short term dream
and time it would need to become a success.
would be to have a team of people working with us and in the long term it would be amazing to
How is Little Moose doing now? James: In the past year or so, Little Moose
eventually have our own store. We're sure that
has gone from strength to strength and this is
and the unique designs that we're creating.
actually a really exciting time for the business
We're excited for what the future holds.
own creations on the site.
Carrie: Having more time to dedicate to Little Moose has made a massive difference.
pages, SEO, etc. and I manage the financial side. We both contribute to the creation of our designs; I often start with sketches on paper and James develops the ideas digitally, which are then laser cut externally and pieced together by hand at home.
Does working with your spouse make running a business easier, or more difficult? James: The honest answer is that it’s a strong. Our careers however, took off on quite
started Little Moose, they were only just
bit of both! It’s amazing to be able to work
different paths and it’s only recently, around
beginning to gain recognition and we spotted
with someone who you’re so comfortable
the launch of Little Moose, that we have started
potential to also succeed within this market.
with and so in-sync with creatively. It makes
Carrie: Little Moose started out primarily as
communication open and ideas come freely.
Carrie: After graduating, I didn’t have a
a re-seller of unique gifts and accessories, but
On the other hand, working and living together
clear direction professionally. Whereas James
we also used the site as a platform to sell our
definitely comes with its challenges…
fell straight into a ‘career’ role in web design
own designs. Both James and I enjoy creating
and digital marketing, it took me a little longer
cute products with a character design edge, and
you love makes everything so worthwhile and
to settle into a job and I tried my hand at a
our combined skill-sets allowed us to get Little
meaningful. However, when you combine
few things before taking up a position as a junior
Moose off the ground.
business and marriage it can be hard to ‘clock-
designer at Disaster Designs – a wholesale designer
there is a place in the market for Little Moose
as we are moving towards primarily selling our
things, including the website, blog, social media
working together.
Carrie: If Little Moose is as successful as we
Designs, where I am now a senior designer, so
James now manages all of the digital side of
Left and Right Little Moose’s most recent collections
a studio. The main vision is to be in a position
scary decision to make, but in the summer of
Carrie: Running a business with the person
off’ and it takes effort to carve out time to
and manufacturer of exclusive collections.
How has the business evolved? James: For the first few years, we balanced
ourselves. I think the fact that Little Moose is a
How did Little Moose come about? James: My experience in digital combined
running Little Moose with our full-time jobs –
as the whole process is fun and something we
needless to say, evenings and weekends became
love doing!
with Carrie’s gift for doodling and experience
very hectic! The business was performing well,
in the giftware industry led us to set up Little
but there came a time when we realised that it
Moose around five years ago when we became
could never reach its full potential unless we
aware of an increase in demand for unique
dedicated ourselves fully to it. By focusing on
Where do you hope the business will be in 5 years’ time? James: I think we both have really high
handmade gifts and accessories. Although
our own designs we could better control pricing,
hopes for Little Moose and would love to see it
websites such as ‘Etsy’ and ‘Not on the High
as well as have a greater sense of achievement in
evolve to the point where we would be able to
Street’ are well-known now, back when we
turning our dreams into a reality.
have a small team and perhaps an office and
creative business makes it much easier though,
Check out the Little Moose website and latest collections at www.littlemoose.co.uk
Below Little Moose’s most recent collections
35
36
Feature
Jonathan Ramalho
37
Hong Kong: the Creative East-West Gateway Jonathan Ramalho BA (Hons) Graphic Design: New Media, Epsom, 2014
Jonathan spent his Study Abroad year in China creating ‘Designers Inbetween’, a documentary exploring Hong Kong’s creative industries through the lens of 14 companies ranging from start-up initiatives to the industry’s leading firms. We speak to Jonathan to find out what it’s like to work in Hong Kong, as opposed to Europe and America. What inspired you to create the ‘Designers Inbetween’ documentary? The journey began when I studied at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University during my Study Abroad year in 2013. I teamed up with Oliver Lehtonen and Miiro Seppänen, both award-winning designers who were also studying out there. I was fascinated by Hong Kong’s diverse environment and eager to convey the enhancement of independence for creative
Jonathan interviewing on Shek 'O Beach
entrepreneurs. I was captivated by the strategic advantages and challenges that artists face in
38
International
Jonathan Ramalho
39
effortless procedures and good supporting infrastructure. From a European perspective, Hong Kong showed that there is a fresh entrepreneurial
“I was motivated to reveal what I believed to be currently one of the hottest design capitals”
spirit on the horizon. Within the industry, people were dedicated to working long hours and all shared the optimism of working in a fastgrowing economy. Experiencing the city first-hand transcends any individual with spontaneous accounts. This fuels designers, who are inspired by the mystical imagination that Hong Kong has to offer, such as the late night street markets in Kowloon to an enormous rubber duck floating in Victoria Harbour.
a global financial capital, and how the industry is so different from the West and the rest of Asia. I was motivated to reveal what I believed to
However, once we got the ball rolling, the project evolved faster than we ever could have imagined. We set up interviews with local
be currently one of the hottest design capitals,
design agencies, and it was great as everyone
especially considering that more and more
seemed interested in contributing to our
businesses are turning towards design talent for
project. Some even said they had been waiting
guidance on how to be more imaginative while
for an opportunity just like this to capture
growing a business.
the stories of this unique artistic community. We were welcomed to people´s studios and
What did you enjoy most about living and working in Hong Kong? I was provided with a holistic and invaluable insight into the unique culture and traditions,
homes, and greeted with open arms. In contrast, Western-based studios sometimes tend to be more reserved, which can make it hard to gain an insight.
and how people adapt their lives to this, and experience the separation the poor and wealthy lifestyles. Being in a new environment which offered
How do the creative industries in Asia compare with the West? Hong Kong is a gateway from East to
Top Artist Ceet being interviewed by Jonathan
In terms of creative business, Hong Kong is definitely reaching out to support the creative scene as well as start-ups. With this combination we are seeing more designers becoming independent with their creative ventures. They
Middle Jonathan and Oliver at Shek ‘O Beach
are forming their own micro brands which professor, author and designer Roger Ball, and founder of ‘C’monde’ industrial design studio Johan Persson, cover exceptionally well in our
Bottom Paola Sinisterra and Ingacio Garcia at Tangram studio being interviewed by Jonathan
documentary.
How do you feel your experience at UCA has helped develop your skills and style? UCA opened me up to new ways of thinking. Being taught by a range of professionals with such diverse practices and backgrounds, I gained a wider and more unique perspective of the creative industries. As an artist, UCA
endless opportunities to pick up new skills
West, so most designers work in between both
provided me with great opportunities to raise
was amazing. I experimented with production
markets. While they are neighbours to the rest
my consciousness and self-awareness. It helped
design, information design, strategic brand
of the fast-growing Asian economy, they are still
me to learn how to articulate ideas in order to
management and art direction. I also enjoyed
driven towards Western clientele.
engage effectively with the right audience.
working with designers and other practitioners
The creative sector is already mature
who spoke barely any English, meaning that I
and well-established in America and
learned a deeper, more creative communication.
Europe. Designers are more likely to pick the comfortable route of working in-house in a large
How did you go about planning and researching the documentary? At first it was tricky to find the right
Now that you’ve graduated from UCA, what are your ambitions for the future? The plan is to hold the premier of ‘Designers
agency or a company, which has created a more
Inbetween’ at Business of Design Week, which is
linear career path. In Hong Kong, designers
held in Hong Kong from 2 - 7 December.
are pushing the boundaries and being more
My ambitions lie within social innovation
connections. Many organisations found
experimental. Instead of firm hierarchical
and shaping rich digital communication
our approach difficult to understand. In a
models like in the West, the city´s young
experiences that are so impactful and
city like Hong Kong, that has a focus on the
industry turned out to be fresh and original, and
compelling they become memories that
conservative financial sector, a relatively small
seemed to operate from small studios hidden
audiences never forget.
project about the creative industries and an
within skyscrapers. We found that Hong Kong
uncommon team of three young designers was
has become one of the best places for anyone
something very new.
planning to start up a creative business with
To read more about Designers Inbetween visit: www.designersinbetween.com
40
Feature
Laura Nailor
The Cat that got the Screen Getting her inspiration from watching Disney animations as a child and behind-the-scenes documentaries, animation alumna Laura Nailor was taken by the concept of capturing lifelike movements and transferring her cartoon drawings to the screen.
the film is animated in rough, and every frame is drawn out using Flash in a similar method to traditional pencil and paper animation. In a typical day for Laura, she works in-depth on just a few seconds of animation. Laura said: “It’s great to be able to see instant feedback from people as soon as a film
Laura used her time at UCA Farnham to develop
is published online. The ‘Simon’s Cat’ stories
her own style of animation. After graduating
have a very universal humour, and they are easy
in 2006, she attended a Skillset networking
to identify with, especially familiar for anyone
event where her graduation work was being
who owns a cat. There definitely seems to be
showcased. Here she secured a Flash animation
something about cats on the internet at the
job at Tandem Films from Animation Director
moment, so we’ve really tapped into something
and fellow UCA alumnus Daniel Greaves. After
popular, which is perhaps why the ‘Simon’s Cat’
four years of doing freelance animation for
cartoons are so successful.”
Tandem and working on television and web
When Laura started working in animation
commercials, in 2010 Laura started animating
the ratio of light-box desks to computer desks
full-time for ‘Simon’s Cat’.
was considerably lower than it is today. 2D
She said: “I like how observational and true to life the ‘Simon’s Cat’ series is, and tries to capture an essence of funny animal
computer software has replaced pencil and paper to a high degree. She said: “I think that the boost in
mannerisms. Because the style is quite minimal,
popularity of online content, new technology
the focus is all on acting and good movement,
and platforms becoming so accessible, makes
which is what I enjoy most about animating. I've
it an exciting time to be making creative art.
learnt a lot about comedy timing while working
Animation is a great medium for escapism and
on ‘Simon’s Cat’.”
provides us with entertainment and
Working closely alongside creator, Simon
often with humour. It's become possible for
Tolfield, each film begins with Simon sketching
anyone to experiment and create animation,
out some detailed storyboards on paper.
and to reach an audience so there's a lot of
Working in Adobe Flash, Laura then develops an
variety around.”
animatic. At this stage Simon and Laura work out the timings and review how it works as a film, perfecting the story and the jokes. Next,
Laura Nailor BA (Hons) Animation, Farnham, 2006
Watch Laura’s animations at www.simonscat.com
Top Laura working at Tandem Films Right Copyright © Simon’s Cat Ltd
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42
Feature
Dr Jennie Jewitt-Harris
43
After many years of working as a doctor, Dr Jennie Jewitt-Harris decided to take her career in a different direction and pursue an MA in Fine Art. She now combines art and science in her work and has recently taken up the position of Artist in Residence at the Watts Gallery, An Artists’ Village in Surrey.
The Art of Medicine
by Dr Jennie Jewitt-Harris
Dr Jennie Jewitt-Harris MA Fine A rt, Farnham, 2013
The interface between art and science has
experience, such as Grace Pailthorpe, Frida
intrigued me for a long time. Finding a way to
Khalo, and Eileen Agar, multi-media artists
combine the two disciplines is something I’ve
such as William Kentridge, and collagists such
always dreamed of. It feels very good to be at a
as Hannah Hoch.
place now where I’m using my understanding
explore how psychological theory has inspired
interested in.
art. It was a great opportunity to lose myself
I’m a medical doctor and psychologist, and
Left ‘Time Passing’ collage and charcoal drawing
Studying at UCA Farnham allowed me to
of both, and exploring subjects that I’m really
in the subject, and to discuss and debate my
I have worked in the field of transplantation
work with other like-minded artists. The
for some time, firstly in clinical research,
lectures were excellent, with a variety of
and more recently setting up and running
different tutors and speakers bringing fresh
a medical charity called ‘Transplant Links’.
ideas and experience. The 2012 Olympics took
I’ve been interested in art for as long as I can
place during my time on the course, and I was
remember, and was always keen to draw and
selected to take part in the Cultural Olympiad
visually record my work. However, it wasn’t
Cross Campus Initiative as the photographer
until I became involved in the project Visions
for a theatrical production depicting the
of Science, a photographic competition that I
stories of the 1908 Olympics. This gave me the
chaired, and ‘Thank You for Life’, a book about
chance to develop my interest in stereoscopic
the experiences of people who have benefitted
photography, and participate in an exciting
from organ donation, that I finally decided
Olympics-inspired exhibition.
to take my passion for art more seriously. My
I have found that there are pluses and
influences have tended to be artists whose work
minuses to having a scientific or medical
is also inspired by medical or psychological
background as an artist. As I still work in
44
Feature
People medicine, I see the impact that life-changing
Reconnect at Rochester
medical events have on people’s lives and this has very much been the inspiration for my recent work. I would describe my artwork almost as an “investigation” into a subject.
Right Stereoscope and photographs, cast in bronze
Each subject that I work on is looked at in a
Below ‘Standing on the Edge of Time’ - collage and charcoal drawing
medicine that define a moment in a person’s
45
variety of ways, and my drawings, collages and stereograms often have the appearance of a diagrammatic investigation.
On a glorious sunny Thursday in June, around 60 alumni spanning six decades of UCA’s history all gathered together at the UCA Rochester campus for an evening of relaxing, reconnecting and reminiscing.
I’m very aware that there are events in life. At that moment people often have to navigate through a new landscape that perhaps they weren’t prepared for. It’s that moment that
UCA Rochester and its founder institutions have nurtured a number of illustrious alumni such as Karen Millen OBE and Dame Zandra Rhodes. Another notable alumnus from Rochester and UCA honorary graduate, was the first guest speaker, Stephen Webster MBE. The
I’ve been interested in. The alumni made the most of the
international jewellery designer spoke of his
medicine that provide inspiration for my art. It’s
opportunity to network and swap stories
time studying at Medway College of Design
a transforming area of medicine that can take
with former classmates and tutors, as they
and how his global career has developed
someone from the brink of death to a new life. At
enjoyed refreshments on the terrace.
over the years. The second guest speaker was
the same time the beliefs that underpin whether
Guests also appreciated meeting other
media expert and UCA honorary graduate Jill
or not we decide to be organ donors provides
generations of Rochester graduates, who
Cochrane who spoke to the group about her
tremendous material to respond to artistically.
studied at the Medway College of Art and the
career in media and presentation skills training.
There are many aspects of transplant
While I haven’t completely given up my
Kent Institute of Art & Design. Very recent
The reunion coincided with this year’s
medical work, my MA has marked a real shift
graduates of the University for the Creative
Graduation Show, so the alumni were treated to
in emphasis to making art. My advice to other
Arts also attended.
tours of the campus by student ambassadors,
professionals is to take what inspired you in
Head of School of Fashion, Thomass
your previous work, and use that experience in
Atkinson, gave a rousing welcome speech
your artwork.
where he said: “Events such as these really
who showed them around the exhibitions of final year student work. If you studied at Rochester and did not
enable our alumni to familiarise themselves
receive an invite to the reunion then please
charity I am also Artist in Residence at Watts
with developments within the institution
update your contact details online or or contact
Gallery and An Artists’ Village in Compton. I was
and get involved with its future. Our UCA
our alumni office.
As well as working part time for the medical
invited to interview for this after the MA show in 2013, and was delighted to take up the position at the beginning of this year. Though my style couldn’t be more different to Watts’, he was very interested in the subject of the human condition and our relationship with time which I find inspiring. I have a studio there and it’s giving me a real opportunity to develop my work further, leading up to a solo exhibition next year, as well as an exhibition later this year with other UCA alumni. If I have a future of research, collaborations, exhibiting my art and using the set of skills I’ve built up, I’ll be very happy.
Jennie’s work can be seen in Time and Tide at the New Ashgate Gallery in Farnham from 28 October to 2 November, and monthly at Watts Open Studio (see wattsgallery.org.uk). Her solo exhibition will be at Watts Gallery in June 2015. To view Jennie’s art visit: www.jenniejh.co.uk
Below Alumni talking with Stephen Webster MBE
community goes beyond the campus and extends both locally and globally, which is really important to us.”
[email protected] www.ucreative.ac.uk/alumni
46
Alumni Name
People
David Haste, former Head of Fine Art, reflects on the creative career of Stass Paraskos
Stass Paraskos 1933-2014 Stass Paraskos was a painting lecturer in the
Cypriot churches. That was, until, as a young
School of Fine Art at Canterbury College of Art
man, he took the boat to England to work in
from 1966 to 1989. In the latter years he took
his brother’s café in Leeds and where he made
over the original degree painting course as the
small paintings to decorate the walls. These
college merged with others to form the Kent
were noticed by local art school tutors, who, in
Institute. A very popular tutor throughout his
1955, encouraged him to enroll at Leeds College
teaching career, Stass inspired generations of
of Art where he eventually became a full time
students and earned their affection and respect.
student, albeit briefly. He formed a strong
He regularly worked alongside his students,
friendship with his tutor, Terry Frost, and
making and painting, sharing their aspirations
moved to Cornwall where he became associated
with unquenchable enthusiasm but above all an
with the St Ives Group and shared a studio with
imbuing love of art.
Wilhemne Barnes-Graham.
Stass became the most significant and
Stass encountered notoriety with his first
internationally renowned Cypriot artist of
solo exhibition, ‘Lovers and Romances’, at
his generation. He was born and raised in
Leeds in 1966. Some of the paintings depicted
Anaphotia, a small remote village in southern
caressing naked figures and, following
Cyprus, when the island was still a British
public complaints, were seized by the police.
colony and very different from the major tourist
Stass became the last artist in England to be
resort it is today.
prosecuted under the 1838 Vagrancy Act that
From the beginning he was instinctively
had earlier been used against DH Lawrence.
attracted to visual imagery, but the only art
At his trial, art world luminaries, including
he saw on the island were the traditional
Herbert Read, Quentin Bell and Norbert Lynton
religious icons, murals and ornaments in
came to his defence, but the case was lost.
Right Stass Paraskos
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Stass Paraskos
49
“Like religion, art is at its best when it is a simple activity but as in religion, simplicity can lead to the experience of something incredible” Even so, with his reputation considerably
many years of inspired teaching. The qualities
enhanced, Stass began teaching at Leeds and
he brought to this were founded upon Stass,
Canterbury art colleges, received a sympathetic
the artist. All of his paintings, drawings and
letter from Roy Jenkins, then the Home Secretary,
work across various art forms such as relief,
and was given a prestigious show at the ICA in
sculpture and printmaking enshrined one all
London with Ian Dury, from ‘Ian Dury and the
embracing subject – Cyprus - political events,
Blockheads’, who would later teach with him
village life, the everyday, folk art, myth, belief,
at Canterbury. Some years later the allegedly
ritual, symbols, tradition, pleasure and tragedy,
‘obscene work’ was purchased by the Tate Gallery.
all contemporary but layered with historical
Stass had a long cherished ambition to establish an art school in Cyprus and in 1969
Eventually retiring from Canterbury
he led a group of ‘students, artists, poets and
in 1987, Stass returned to Cyprus where he
hangers on’ to Famagusta and set up an initial
devoted the rest of his life to his Cyprus College
summer school. Following the Turkish invasion
and making art. His work was widely sought
of 1974 and the resulting chaos, these classes
after, he had regular solo exhibitions in Nicosia
moved to Lemba near Paphos, a picturesque
and the UK, and with one major international
old village set on a gentle hillside leading down
exhibition, he represented Cyprus at the 1996
to the sea. Here, in 1976, a profusion of studios,
Sao Paolo Bienale.
workshops and chalets, became established
For one who was largely self-taught, Stass
as The Cyprus School of Art. This sun-blessed
was a well read man and a distinctive writer of
location attracted a great many artists,
books about Cyprus and its mythologies as well
principally from the UK, to stay and teach as
as poetry, magazine and newspaper articles.
it did scores of students from Canterbury and
Stass died this year aged 81 and was buried at
other British art schools. Stass became a very
St Christopher’s church in his old home village
well known personality in Cyprus and by the
of Anaphotia. The generous qualities this man
1990s, following further expansion, the school
gave as artist and teacher to so many are best
evolved into the Cyprus College of Art; today it
reflected in his own words:
is a strong internationally recognised institution at Lemba and Larnaca. Throughout these successful years, with
Left ‘The Red Nude’ by Stass Paraskos, 2009
ambiguities, past and present.
‘Like religion, art is at its best when it is a simple activity but as in religion, simplicity can lead to the experience of something incredible.’
regular periods spent in Cyprus, Stass’ family home remained in Kent. From 1970 he was a senior lecturer at the Canterbury College of Art (now UCA Canterbury) where he fulfilled
David Haste Head of the School of Fine Art Kent Institute of Art & Design 1982-98
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