Jonathan Delivers First Class Presentation

Lens based artist, Jonathan Pratt, returned to South Eastern Regional College (SERC) this month to catch up with current art and design students who are considering their progression routes.

Jonathan (23), from Downpatrick, recently graduated with a First Class BA (Hons) in Fine Art from the prestigious Glasgow School of Art (GSA), recognised as one of Europe's leading university-level institutions for visual creative disciplines.

The recipient of a coveted scholarship to study at GSA, the young man completed the Level 2, Level 3 and Foundation Diploma in Art and Design at SERC Downpatrick Campus, before heading to Glasgow.   He said,  “I failed my art GCSE, but I was able to turn that all around at SERC with all the encouragement, nurturing and learning I got through my courses.  The lecturers made learning fun. I was treated like an adult, and I learnt to become independent.

“I would recommend the pathway I took with SERC as I would not have done half the things I did, if I had not  come to the college. At GSA, I started a gallery society to exhibit students work outside the university.  We hosted over 400 artists and worked with some of the best known and respected curators from the art world.   This venture continues with other students taking the lead.   I would not have had the confidence, or know-how, to set something up like that if  it hadn’t been for the project-based learning and enterprise work that I did through our studies at SERC.”

Speaking about going to university to current students following art courses, Jonathan said, “University was good, I had a very pleasant experience, but it was hard work.   My advice to anyone coming through art and design courses is to guard your artistic integrity – this is what is going to set you apart from everyone else.”

He added, “Networking is so important - that is how you get your name known and get involved in different projects and work.   It is also important not to undersell yourself, and to get your art to the right people and places - getting £50 for a piece of your work to hang in someone’s hallway might seem like a good idea, but who is seeing that work?”

Jonathan is progressing to a Master’s in Fine Art at Ulster University in Belfast.   He concluded, “I am looking forward to the Master’s course and after that, perhaps a doctorate.   I would eventually like to curate or perhaps teach.”

Keri-Ann Ross, Lecturer in Art and Design at SERC said, "We were delighted to welcome Jonathan back to Downpatrick Campus to share his university experience with the OCR Level 3 Art and Design and Foundation Diploma in Art and Design students.”

She added, “Jonathan is a great example of how far students can go, and what can be achieved on a different pathway than perhaps expected.  To gain a first class from the GSA is an amazing feat, and testament to his hard work. He was an enthusiastic, innovative, and entrepreneurial student who took full advantage of the opportunities made available to him during his time at SERC, and beyond, and who has developed significantly as a result.  We wish him continued success.”

Find out about Art and Design courses at SERC.