Lucy Gregory graduated with a BA in History of Art in 2008. She is now working as junior silver specialist at Bonhams 1793 (a fine art and antiques auctioneers) where she is responsible for cataloguing and valuing items as well as producing sale catalogues and preparing for auctions.
How did you get your current role?
"After graduating, I undertook a Master’s degree in Fine and Decorative Art in London. After interning for 6 months at an auction house dealing in silver and arms and armour I was offered a trainee job with the South African Painting Department at Bonhams. 14 months later, I was offered my current position with the silver department."
How did studying at Birmingham prepare you for your career?
"Almost every day, I use the skills that I developed and the knowledge that I learnt during my time at Birmingham. One of the most important parts of my job is deconstructing objects on the spot in front of clients. Being able to study and analyse objects, as well as iconology such as identifying saints, during my degree gave me excellent practice. A sound knowledge of social and economic history, which features heavily in the History of Art BA, is also crucial."
What is your advice for current History of Art students?
"Read as much as you can and see as much art as you can. Make the most of University of Birmingham’s outstanding art collections in the Barber Institute of Fine Arts. Don’t just focus on paintings - objects such as furniture, ceramics and silver also have a very large part to play in the history of art. It is also worth thinking about what you want to do after your degree – if you want to work in an auction house try and get some work experience before you graduate!"