Reality Bites

Name: Tristam Adams
Hometown: Near Wolverhampton
Education:
Double Award AVCE
Graduated 2007 BA Fine Art
University of Reading

What was your background before University?

I did a double award AVCE at College and also did A-levels in Philosophy and Psychology which gave me a background in critical thinking that I could later apply to my work.

Did you take a Foundation Year?

No. Having thought I wouldn’t need an Art Foundation year, I realised I would have found it an advantage. I could have had the time to consider my choices and learn more about different artists.

Did you do any work experience?

I wish we’d been pushed into getting more experience. I was naïve and thought I could leave University and be an artist. It’s not a golden ticket. Some people get the impression that the degree is the last step, whereas in fact it’s the first. You really need work experience.

What does it feel like after your degree show?

It’s terribly deflating. At University you take it for granted that people look at your work. I realised it’s very easy to take that tutor contact for granted.

What are you doing now?

I work for Sky in an office job. When it’s your first time out of education you don’t realise the luxury it is having the time to read books on art theory and practice your art. The people who are doing well from the course are the ones who are very driven.

Do you have any advice for young people who are thinking of getting into Art and Design?

Get a bit of work in the industry that you want to go into. It didn’t occur to me that even invigilating in an art gallery would be worthwhile for my future degree.