We spoke to Simeon from Northumbria University Art&Design Saturday Club about their time on the programme.
Why were you interested in a Saturday Club with an Art&Design focus?
Art&Design is in my family, because my nana and my mum are really creative. I’m technically a fifth generation artist, apparently. I’m at Northumbria University Saturday Club, and my mum went to Northumbria University for her art degree – and my grandparents met at art college in 1969.
What has been your favourite part of Saturday Club?
Visiting Yorkshire Sculpture Park. Some of the sculptures had crystals popping out of them, some of them were just weird and wacky, there was lots of random stuff, it was really interesting.
If you could choose three words to describe your Saturday club experience, what words would you choose and why?
Experimental, inclusive, and engaging. We’ve got to try all sorts of different methods and mediums, tutors always encourage us to enjoy and join in, and the sessions are so interesting and I want to have a go at everything.
What does Art&Design mean to you?
I think art and design are the basis of all things. Take the cover on a book for example – colours, typography, and how things visually work together.
Who, what or where inspires you?
Nature. That’s definitely a big thing for me. I like how things aren’t all symmetrical and everything’s different. I like drawing things from nature, and also taking photographs.
What would you suggest for overcoming a creative block?
Go for a walk with your dog if you have one. Run up and down the stairs, or have a cold shower. If I’m stuck on homework or something and my mind just goes blank, I’ll run up and down the stairs like once, twice, maybe three times.
If you could make one thing better in the world, what would it be and why?
Global warming probably. That’s the major thing for us now as human beings, then we can work on all of the other things that need fixing. Maybe art and design could help for awareness, but maybe also if someone designed a machine or something that could fix everything. It reminds me of those robots in the game Horizon that get fuel from biomass and eat everything living on the planet.
What’s the best thing about being your age?
You get to laugh at older people because they all have responsibilities and things to do.
What would you say to someone thinking about joining a Saturday Club?
You’ll get to try things that you’ve never done before.
If you could say anything to your future self, what would you say?
Don’t let what people say affect you, just kind of keep your chin up kind of thing.
Do you have any next steps with regards to your future?
I’m going to college, that’s a definite. I want to do more art, design and technology, and probably something to do with nature, too.
At Northumbria University Art&Design Saturday Club, Club members explore traditional creative skills as well as using the university’s creative making and digital technology facilities. Club members also take part in national events including Masterclasses with leading industry professionals and the Summer Show, where Saturday Clubs nationwide exhibit their work in a public exhibition – all for free!
Interview conducted and edited by Anisha Jackson