Hannah Vicary

New ways of approaching art 

Being given the opportunity to study at such a prestigious art university was something I was genuinely excited about and never dreamed that would be possible.

I have worked in creativity for twenty years but never studied art formally, though it has always been a deep interest.

The Graduate Diploma in Contemporary Art History opened my eyes to entirely new ways of looking at and feeling art, approaching contemporary art history not chronologically but through unexpected entry points: Daoism, Cosmotechnics, Affect and others.

It gave me permission to find new ways of seeing.

Breaking down barriers and discovering your own practice

It was also a personal journey of discovery. I found myself drawn to many ancient practices that Alice Andrews wove so brilliantly into the course structure, inspiring us to look at art in ways we hadn't imagined.

Through this I discovered my own visual practice, something I hadn't felt confident enough to explore before.

Alice teaches in a way that breaks down the barriers that can otherwise make art feel inaccessible and inspires each student's individual path. I left every lecture never wanting it to end.

Alice Andrews and the course at Goldsmiths have given me the confidence to dare to imagine something new for myself and my career.

Flexibility to work and study

I am studying part-time at Goldsmiths, so I can continue with my company alongside my studies.

Advice for future students

Come with an open mind to everything you will see, hear and be told.

Every lecturer I worked with at Goldsmiths is brilliant, kind and supportive in ways I hadn't known lecturers could be.

They should all be considered national treasures for their knowledge and commitment to the arts.

Coming full circle

I used to live across from Telegraph Hill Park, the area holds a special place in my heart.

Coming back to Goldsmiths was like coming home full circle to my mid-twenties self.