Alumni Spotlight - Kaytie Black
After a difficult period in her life, Kaytie turned to art as her own form of therapy ❤️. After graduating with a First-Class Honours degree, she shares her inspiring story with us 👇
Introduce yourself
My name is Kaytie Black, aged 22 from Perth, Scotland!
What course did you study at Perth College UHI?
I studied Art and Contemporary Practices, starting from HNC all the way to graduating with a First-Class BA Honours - so four years of study.
How did you hear about Perth College UHI?
I live close to Perth College UHI, so I have always known about it, but more so through school as an alternative option.
What were you doing before you came to Perth College UHI?
Before coming to Perth College UHI, I was in school but stayed all the way until the end of 6th year.
Why did you decide to pick this course?
I decided to pick this course as I have always had a love for art, as it is my own kind of therapy. After the death of my sister in 2013, I found art was a way of helping myself to express in a way without having to speak about it. Not only did it help me to deal with the loss of Megan, but it allowed me to create artwork in which people could also relate to. I also didn’t want to leave home at that time, so coming to Perth College UHI was the perfect option.
What was your favourite thing about the course?
My favourite thing about this course was the freedom of expression and there was no wrong way of doing something. Many subjects have structured guidelines and correct answers but in art you’re able to create what you want, which was especially nice after coming from school where you are made to follow a set brief of either still life or landscape. There was a more mature take in college.
Were there any standout/memorable moments from your course?
The most stand out moment for me in college is when I had that lightbulb moment as to what I actually wanted to do with my life. For years I didn’t have a clue, people always asked me “what do you even do with an art degree?” And I started to worry about where I was actually going to go after this. One day a qualified art therapist came in to speak with us, and she specifically said “if you’re on the fence as to whether you want to do art therapy or not, then the answer is you don’t want to. It’s a job that needs 100% commitment” and from there I knew it was Art for Therapy I wanted to do and not Art therapy. Creating art with people for a beneficial purpose.
What knowledge, skills and experience did you gain from your course that have helped you since leaving Perth College UHI?
During the course, I built up the skills of creating and conducting art workshops for a variety of people. Having these skills has helped me to attain the job I am in now and will help with future workshops. I’ve also built up the confidence to speak to other artists, either in person or on social media - this was always an important part of the course, being able to interact with other artists.
What did you think about the styles of teaching, and the support you received from staff?
The lecturers and staff throughout my course were honestly the loveliest and most helpful people. I obviously created art from a traumatic experience, and they were so kind and honest when it came to critiquing my work. They always were able to find ways of improving my work without taking away from the true meaning of it. Every one of them had a different take or opining on something which gave me more to think about.
Did you undertake a placement or work experience whilst at Perth College UHI?
In our third year, we undertook placement (just before covid happened). I worked in two care homes situated in Crieff doing art workshops with residents who suffered from dementia. This was probably one of my most favourite things I have done, and it was definitely a turning point for me - realising this was something I loved doing.
What did you like about the campus?
In terms of art facilities, the space in which we worked in was good. There was always space for us to work, unless another class was in - then this was more difficult. We always had space for laptops and computers and if we needed anything, the lecturers were helpful in sending us in the right direction.
Were there any other achievements you gained, on your journey?
Throughout the journey, I was able to find new techniques in creating art which I still use and love to this day. I thought I just loved painting, but I now work with plaster cast, clay, resin etc. It’s helped to open up my options.
What have you been up to since graduation? Are you currently employed?
Since graduating, I have successfully obtained a job down at Perth and Kinross Council doing Art for Therapy with young people coming out of the care system. This is genuinely the perfect job, and I am so lucky to have secured this whilst coming to the end of my last year. Whilst doing my dissertation, I created surveys for people who work within mental health or an art setting and by doing this I was approached by someone who found interest in what I do and instantly wanted me to work with them! It’s definitely who you know, not what you know.
Do you feel your studies have helped you with your career?
Yes, my studies have 100% helped me with my career. I would never have thought about this type of work if it wasn’t for my placement and research work.
What are your future career plans?
For the future I am hoping to work with more young people and hopefully go back to the care homes I worked in for placement, to conduct more workshops with them. I would also love to have my own studio somewhere where I just create art and people can pop in and out to see what I do!
Can we see your work anywhere?
I currently have an Instagram and Facebook page where I’m constantly showing my work and commissions I do. My website shows more about my college experience.
Instagram: @kb_artist_xx
Facebook: Kaytie Black Art
Website: kaytieblackart.wordpress.com
Did you enjoy studying at Perth College UHI? Any highlights?
I loved studying at Perth College UHI - from making new friends, to finding the perfect job. Attaining new skills and becoming a more confident version of myself.
And finally, what advice would you give to someone thinking about studying at Perth College UHI?
For anyone thinking about studying at Perth College UHI, do it! I think people have the feeling that it’s going to be like school, and you’re treated like a child, but it is completely different. You’re treated like an adult, you’re able to voice your opinions in a safe way as well as meeting new people and becoming more confident. I never wanted to leave home to go study at uni, so this was the perfect option.
