Exhibition draws on student talent
A Forth Valley College lecturer has organised a Scotland-wide exhibition for new artists from the further education sector.
Art and design lecturer Ewan John has created Future Artists Scotland, which will feature students’ work selected by lecturers from 10 colleges, including FVC.
The first Future Artists Scotland exhibition on November 26 at Stirling University’s Pathfoot Building will feature a range of work from more than 40 student artists. An open evening will be held on that day marking the start of the exhibition, which then runs daily from 9am-5pm until December 20.
Ewan, said: “It is felt that the artwork emerging from Scotland’s FE colleges is increasing in cultural significance and has earned a place in which to express itself.
“The idea originated from a trip to the RSA’s New Contemporaries Exhibition – now in its eighth year and well established.
“For me it raised the question why is there no further education equivalent. I thought this would be a great platform for them for all the hard work they put in over the year and to showcase their art.
“It is important we not only work with students throughout their career at college, but give them something to work towards after they graduate.
“The reality of leaving the supportive and collaborative environment of college is daunting, especially so for students within FE whose pathway may not have been as straightforward. Cultural education shouldn’t just stop at the college door, it should permeate into society through events such as this.
“It is envisaged this will become a major event on the art calendar, d, reviewed and discussed.”