Tuesday 25-02-2025 - 11:01

At the beginning of last year, I went for an interview with Karen Heald, Course Leader of the MA Course in the Regent Street building. My interview was for the Arts in Health course, which examines how arts and crafts can be adapted in society, to improve health standards and awareness.

Health can relate to physical or mental health. From my viewpoint, I focus on ‘wellbeing’ and improving my standard of living and others' where possible. I was accepted into the MA and am grateful for the opportunity to study on this diverse (and interdisciplinary) course.

 

I had previously studied several courses up to BA Degree level. I worked in retail, as a support tutor and as an adult learning tutor. Art has always been my main interest, but I took educational and community art courses sporadically and not in an academic sequence. There is a lot in my work and personal background which I can utilise in my current course and it may help that I haven’t gone from A to B in practical and theoretical art. I have developed my style and interests in art, away from education.

 

The MA Arts course takes place in the Georgian building at Regent Street (which is a historical and inspiring environment). Although there are a decent number of students on the MA, the course focuses on quality not quantity and there is an opportunity to get to know students and staff within a ‘safe and cosy’ environment. As I am neuro-diverse, I feel comfortable in this setting which is inclusive of students with physical/mental issues or personal struggles. The tutors provide one-on-one support and are helpful and empathetic. This outlook extends to the students who are friendly and supportive of each other. There isn’t a feeling of competition or comparison, and we appreciate diversity within the group.

 

At this point in my life, I need a supportive environment for my personal and professional development. I am in the process of becoming a TrACE Champion (the University is working towards being trauma-informed and offers training workshops for those interested). Although I am not working at the moment, the university has many leads to career development and volunteer opportunities. I am a student representative of Year one AiH and have joined a (free for art students) practical workshop run by a previous MA student, on Wednesdays. There are opportunities to do multidisciplinary workshops and visits to other countries. I find art lectures stimulating and interesting. There is also a lot of support for academic writing and research. I find I am thriving within Wrexham University and in the role of being a 'life-long learning' student!

 

Written by Amanda Derry, MA Arts in Health Student
Edited by Lauren Hole, Communications & Engagement Coordinator 

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