Making It Happen

Name: Amelia Beavis-Harrison
Age:21
Graduated BA Fine Art
Lincoln School of Art

What do you do?

I currently work as a gallery assistant at the Djanogly Gallery, Nottingham. I recently co-founded an art group called Exit Here based in Nottingham which holds studios and runs a programme of one off events including exhibitions, happenings and collaborations. I am also a practicing curator.

What was your background before University?

From school I went straight to University as I was in a bit of a hurry and didn't really want the extra time in education, I think on reflection it would have been good to have had that extra year to find out more about which institution would be good for me because I did apply to Universities not knowing the benefits of certain institutions, or really being that sure about my own practice.

What advice would you give to young people thinking of applying to Art School?

Going to art school is a fantastic experience - for three years you can have constant focus and drive on your art work. Constant interaction with peers and tutors will provide a vital insight into your own practice and whilst it is possible to become part of a studio group after graduating it is never quite the same environment and an institution studio can be at times cheaper than a rented studio. However good the experience of art school is you will still have to create your own path after your degree there is no certainty of stability and that can squash many egos that have developed within the comfort of art school.

How did you get into curating?

I took on the role as chair of my degree show and worked with a team of fellow students to raise money through sponsorship, create promotional material, produce a catalogue and generally pull off what we considered almost impossible. I also set up a graduate residency in a gallery whereby a selection of graduates from local institutions worked and exhibited in the space for one month.

Is Art and Design an unreliable career option?

You should never rely on an opportunity finding you - it is very much you creating them for your self. Setting up Exit Here has been one of the steepest learning curves I have had, but I am making my own path and have gained valuable experience.

One of the things I found particularly hard after graduating was getting an income from a job I enjoyed and like many of my peers in the same situation I took on a part time job that paid the bills. Working for free is often a concept that people wanting to make it will have to be comfortable with whilst starting out.