MA Art History and Curating student, Lily Cheetham, tells us more about her experience studying at the University of Birmingham.
Why did you choose Art History and Curating at the University of Birmingham?
“Birmingham was the only university to offer this type of joint course, with the opportunity to curate your own exhibition and partake in a long-term placement in the field. I have a BA in Art History and found that this course naturally progressed my art historical knowledge whilst expanding my practical experience of curating exhibitions.”
What has been the highlight of your course?
“The best part of this course is the opportunity to curate your own exhibition in either a contemporary art space or traditional gallery. This year, the options were The Grand Union or The Barber Institute of Fine Arts in collaboration with The Royal Collection. I chose to work alongside the Barber, and curate an exhibition which got a five star review in the Guardian. Without this experience, I would have never achieved my current role or had the confidence to go for other roles within the museum and gallery industry.”
What have you learnt from your programme?
“The most valuable skills I learnt from this course were practical ones to do with exhibition planning and creation. I learnt everything from budgeting, loans administration and insurance to public programming, display and marketing. It provided me with an invaluable skill set for future curating projects that I will undertake.”
What is life like as a student at the University of Birmingham?
“As a commuting student, my student experience of Birmingham may be different to most. I can’t recommend bars, nightclubs or shops, but I can guarantee that staff and students are all equally understanding and supportive about the pressures and strains that come with the commute. My student life was tough, but it was well worth it as the support from staff members was second to none.”