Kerri Pratt
Kerri Pratt is a graduate of the BA (Hons) Fine Art course. We asked Kerri to tell us about her experience at Derby.
'Reconstruct IV' by Kerri Pratt
'Reconstruct V' by Kerri Pratt
Tell us about the award you've won
The certificate awarded at the graduation was titled: Vice-Chancellor's Award for the ADT Degree Show.
I first knew about the prize on the evening of the Degree Show preview in June 2011. This was the first viewing of the Degree Show when all my friends, relatives and contacts were invited to come and see my work (which for some of them would be the first time they had ever seen any of my paintings). I was completely surprised when we arrived and a colleague from my course pointed out that there was a label next to my work; 'Vice- Chancellors Purchase Award'. I felt very proud and flattered to receive the award - having worked so hard during the course, it felt like the icing on the cake. The Dean: Huw Davies and head of Fine Art: Scott Green, came over to congratulate me and informed me that the award had been created as they were so impressed by my exhibition at the Degree show and that the Vice-Chancellor would like to purchase some of my work to add to the Universities permanent collection of Fine Art. This resulted in the purchase of two pieces from the 'Reconstruct' series which are now on display both at the Markeaton Street and Kedleton Road sites. My classmates were very complimentary about me receiving the award and commented that it was well deserved; this really meant a lot to me as I have a lot of respect for their thoughts and opinions and they have been such a large part of my journey through the course.
What experience did you gain on your course that will help with your future career?
The course has given me the opportunity to develop my practice and prepare proposals, work to deadlines, and present my work in a professional manner. All these skills are highly relevant to real opportunities in fine art practice. The end of year Degree Show is an ideal showcase for your work and can promote potential for other opportunities after University. In my case, this lead on to three exhibition opportunities at Wirksworth Festival, Nottingham Open and Banks Mill Open Studios within the first 6 months.
I also took part in the Enterprise Inc programme in the final year which has given me lots of insight into how to establish myself in business which I hope will be a great advantage over the coming year too.
What was the best part of studying at Derby for you?
The best part of studying at Derby is that it gave me the opportunity to share my development in a very supportive environment, both in terms of peers and academic staff. I didn't join University to make new friends, but I inevitably did; as an artist, it's very constructive to be around like-minded people. We were encouraged to discuss, debate, make our own decisions, and become independent thinkers.
Why did you choose Derby?
I have a family which means that it was important for me to be able to study Iocally. I have been able to fit in my study with other commitments of work and family life without the disruption of having to commute or move away from my home.
What do you think makes Derby different from other institutions?
As a mature student I was also looking for a university where I wouldn't feel ancient, and there appeared to be quite a diverse age range already at Derby as I observerved when I came along to the open day.
How would you sum up your experience as a student at Derby?
I had a life changing experience at Derby, it really was a journey of self discovery for me. I have come out of the experience with more confidence and self belief, both as an artist and also as an individual. I have felt empowered by my achievement and feel very optimistic about my future fine art practice. I am a true believer in the idea that if you work hard enough, and want something enough, then anything is possible.
When I look back, it was a massive decision for me to make, to apply to university was not something that I planned to do in my forties! I think its worth noting that I spent the first year of the course (at least), really doubting myself and thinking I wasn't good enough to be there. I had real issues with my self-confidence as an artist and at times I felt as though I was on an emotional roller-coaster: I finished my course with a 1st Class BA (Hons) Fine Art. This just proves how much an experience like this (hard work, success and achievement), can change the way you see yourself and in turn how others will see you too.
What three reasons would you give to someone to come to Derby to study their degree?
- Friendly and supportive institution.
- Well located for easy access to city centre and local facilities.
- Friendly and safe city
Where do you see yourself in a year's time?
I am aiming to raise my artistic profile locally initially, and establish my independent practice within this year. Later, I hope that I can begin to get involved in national open submissions, commissions, and other opportunities.
