Bea Mulder

A multidisciplinary degree bringing artistic practice and academia together

I love studying on the BA Fine Art & History of Art (FAHA) degree because, as it is a joint-honours programme, it feeds both the creative and academic parts of my brain.

I spend half my time developing my Fine Art practice in the studio and half my time reading and attending lectures for the Visual Cultures (History of Art) side of the course.

I enjoy the variety this provides to my week but, even more so, how the ‘FA’ and the ‘HA’ intermingle. I find it fascinating to see how what I learn in Visual Cultures enriches my art practice, both inspiring the conceptual content of my work and enabling me to reflect more critically on the processes of my practice as a whole.

Being able to choose your Fine Art tutor in 2nd and 3rd year, sign up for additional tutorials with studio staff and visiting artists, as well as present work to peers in Crits and parity tutorials, means I have felt supported with many points of contact, and my work has been ‘fed’ by many different perspectives (rather than developing in a vacuum).

Endless space for ideas and experimentation

On this course, I never feel 'stagnant' as there are so many opportunities for conversation and experimentation in the Art Practice Areas (APAs).

Studying at Goldsmiths has introduced me to so many new concepts, ideas and perspectives which have galvanised my art and writing practices.

Working in studios among 1st, 2nd and 3rd year FAHA students allows for the intermingling of ideas, easy access to advice and a sense of creative community.

Creative and professional development

The FAHA degree supports my future choices because it provides a variety of options without losing out on depth. Developing a self-motivated art practice, enriched by academic study and group/one-on-one discussions, opens the opportunity to become a practicing artist.

Alongside this, the History of Art side of the course has equipped me with a highly relevant and critical understanding of how Art exists within contemporary issues due to being approached as ‘Visual Cultures’ (encompassing philosophy, anthropology, sociology etc) rather than an overly historical chronological study.

The level of varied yet deep enquiry that the multi-faceted course provides has supported my development as a thinker and artist, whether I choose to pursue a creative or research-based practice, further study or gallery work.

Advice for future students

Make the most of studying in London! Visit lots of art exhibitions and see theatre if you can. Feed your brain with all the culture around you which is so easy to access in London.

Also be kind to yourself and give yourself time to adjust. If you need to spend evenings in or alone to calibrate to a new way of life, allow yourself to do this without feeling like you’re missing out. There is plenty of time to do everything you want to do!

I’ve enjoyed living near campus so that I can easily pop into the studio and library whenever I need to or feel inspired.

Advice for art students: Keep a sketchbook/notebook and record any and all ideas inside it.

Write notes in tutorials and crits and collect references from peers and tutors so that you have a bank of inspiration to draw from.

A well-connected green area with lots to do

I love attending Deptford Life drawing, which happens every Tuesday evening at the Royal Albert pub. It is a cosy and welcoming environment to draw and unwind.

I also really enjoy sitting and reading on the College Green. It is quite incredible to have such easy access to a safe and green space and yet also be so well-connected and close to Central London.