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“It was the catalyst I needed to take a huge
leap of faith and reduce my job to part-
time, allowing me to paint the remainder
of the week. Two years later my husband
retired, and I was able to give up my job and
concentrate on painting. However, it made me
wonder – where do I go from here?
Potting Shed
“
I am glad I came to college.
It has boosted my confidence,
encouraged me to push my
boundaries, helped me make
industry contacts and the
qualification verifies I am a
competent artist. Overall it has
raised my aspirations and helped
me to believe in myself and know
I can do this for real.
”
“The turning point came in 2012. I broke my
leg and was off work for months. I had an
opportunity to paint at home in my studio full-
time. I just loved the freedom and it made me
think - imagine if I could get a job doing this
and make an income from doing something
I loved?
10
The magazine of Ayrshire College
“Because I have an insatiable desire to learn,
I was curious to know what courses I could do
at college. I looked online and there was an
advert for an Open Interview Day for NC Art
and Design. I went along and met the lecturer,
who I actually knew. As he had seen my work
already, I was offered a place on the course.
Finally, I realised my dream of becoming an
art student.
“I have been here for three years and I
have enjoyed all of it. I liked how we had
opportunities to try new things, learn new
skills and improve our techniques. I was
always disappointed when we moved on to
something new as I was having fun exploring
what I had just learned. I was inspired by
learning about other artists, experiencing
master classes and visiting art galleries.
“I am glad I came to college. It has boosted
my confidence, encouraged me to push
my boundaries, helped me make industry
contacts and the qualification verifies I am
a competent artist. Overall, it has raised my
aspirations and helped me to believe in myself
and know I can do this for real.”
Caroline is hoping to put her award money
towards a printing press. She is setting
up her own business as an artist and is
currently organising a website, social media
and online shop. Part of the award involves
Caroline returning to the College next year
to give a presentation to art students on her
experiences working in the creative industry.