Counselling and psychotherapy students turn academic project into art display
A group of University of Central Lancashire (UCLan) students have turned their academic project into a free eye-catching exhibition.
Thirty counselling and psychotherapy undergraduates have created posters, paintings, sculptures, poetry and slideshows as part of their module which explores what it means to be human.
The work of the first-year students was so vivid that it was decided to create Who Are We? And put it on display, in UCLan’s PR1 Gallery, until 18 March.
Ann Scrivens, from Lostock Hall, used her love of Harry Potter as her inspiration for her range of artwork. The 24-year-old, who suffers with ME and fibromyalgia, created a display of various items including a poster, t-shirts and memorabilia.
Ann, who had to stop her veterinary training in London because she contracted a serious illness, said: “My mum started reading the books to me when I was aged three and from then I was hooked. I found I felt a real belonging to Ravenclaw because I had the shared values and felt I belonged to a team. That helped me make friends who were likeminded and I loved that.”
Lina Vasquez took inspiration from a variety of aspects which have shaped her character and world views. The 23-year-old’s painting included a self-portrait, flags of four countries which have been important to her life, ying and yang and astrology signs, a book and a brain.
"Painting is something which I really like to spend time doing so when we were tasked with being creative for our module it was a great mix of my art and my studies."
Lina, who speaks eight languages and has a YouTube channel about personal development and language, commented: “Painting is something which I really like to spend time doing so when we were tasked with being creative for our module it was a great mix of my art and my studies.”
Lowri Dowthwaite, lecturer in psychological interventions, said: “The students have explored a wide range of issues that many people will be able to relate to, such as humanity, mental health, perception, generational bonds, addiction, cultural issues, kindness, religion, loss, bereavement and much more.
“We’re delighted that their work is now on display for everyone to enjoy and appreciate the meaning behind the creations.”
