Laurence
- From: Chester, UK
- Studying: MA in History of Art (full-time)
What background do you come to HoA from and why HoA?
"I did an undergraduate degree in Architecture/Design Studies at Liverpool University where I found the context and history of architecture to be more interesting than studio work. I chose History of Art to expand upon this interest and to broaden my understanding of art and architecture."
Why York rather than somewhere else?
"York has a really friendly academic environment that encourages students to think differently and challenge a lot of preconceptions that exist in academic research and writing."
What are your research interests / what are you working on?
"I’ve come from completing an undergraduate degree in Architecture, so most of my interests involve architectural history. I’m currently writing my dissertation on the architecture of nineteenth-century and contemporary railway stations, although I’m also very interested in feminist and post-colonial theory."
What modules have been most fascinating and why?
"Theories of the Mediterranean has been one of the most interesting as rather than focussing on the analysis of Mediterranean art objects, the module actually uses the Mediterranean as a case study through which we can discuss philosophical issues relating to art history such as connectivity and the power structures present in art historical scholarship."
What’s the level of support like from staff and the department as a whole, are they receptive to feedback?
"The support from the department is always really good. Staff are genuinely interested in what we are researching – which helps a lot – and the student/staff forums help to highlight any problems we might have as students and discuss these directly with the people in charge."
What’s been your favourite study trip and why?
"The Installation/Participation trip to London was really enjoyable and thought provoking, especially the Derek Jarman exhibition at Somerset House that included an introduction from the curator."
How has your experience at York broadened your horizons as an art historian?
"I’ve been able to study topics that reconsider many of the problematic misconceptions that have persisted in art history and discuss these issues with a variety of students, some of whom support traditional art historical approaches and some of whom want to revolutionise the way we consider art. This makes seminars really interesting and helps to make myself aware of how I think about art history. I believe the ability to be self-critical is really important."
Are you involved in any society or community-based activity in York outside your studies?
"I’m a keen cyclist so I spend a lot of time on my bike with the University of York Cycling Club."
Have you undertaken any work experience during your degree?
"I’m currently an Architectural Research Volunteer at the National Railway Museum – this has involved looking into the architecture of railways, specifically stations and train sheds, for an upcoming exhibition in 2015."
What do you feel is the most important thing you will take away from your experience at York?
"Probably the way the modules I chose helped me to think critically about how I approach art history and academic writing. I now feel like I can confidently engage with the problems one may encounter within the field of art history and discuss these with a balanced perspective."
Do you have an idea of how you’ll use your degree/plans for the future
"I like the idea of becoming a writer or journalist and it’s been something I’ve looked into. The MA in History of Art has helped me to improve my writing to a high standard, so if I do pursue a career of this kind the degree will have certainly contributed a great deal."
What would your dream job be?
"Probably something to do with bikes. Working for a large bike company or as a cycling journalist would definitely be something of a dream job."
