Niamh McFarlane (22) from Denny won the Most Promising Student in the Department of Creative, Digital and Leisure Industries prize at the 2023 Forth Valley College Graduation Ceremony.
Niamh from Denny, also graduated with a BA Art & Design and now progresses to complete her Honours at the University of Stirling. She has also gaining a growing reputation for her work with the Smith Art Gallery and Museum in Stirling, snapping up one of her paintings and other works being chosen to be shown at various prestigious exhibitions.
She, said: “I chose to apply for Forth Valley College during Covid. I had time to reconsider my career path at this time and remember visiting the Art Department at the College previously.
“I think what made my time so successful while studying at the College, was the relationships I had built with the lecturers. They are a constant support system and so accepting and encouraging to any ideas I had. They truly care about their students, and want to see every single person succeed.
“I also can’t stress enough how great the technicians are, willing to help with anything you need. I was taught how to build, stretch and frame my canvases, and so many useful skills from the technicians who take their time to teach these vital skills to the students.
“The facilities include use of the print making studio, sculpture workshop, painting studios, photography studios, the list goes on. There is a place for every kind of artist to develop and refine their skills, and they are provided with so much support and equipment.
“My time at Forth Valley College has been the happiest years of my life, finding who I am as an artist and being supported and encouraged from everyone around me. Most importantly it gave me the confidence, knowledge and skill to thrive in my practise. We participated in many exhibitions through the course, which started the process of installing my work in another space, promoting and exhibiting across Scotland.
“Forth Valley College has given me the qualifications, skills and support to progress further in my studies to the University of Stirling to complete my Honours degree. I feel even when I leave Forth Valley College, I will still keep in contact with the College, as I have had such a positive experience.
“I would absolutely recommend the College to anyone. I was swithering about applying for my HNC at the time, but I have never looked back. I feel I have found my purpose.
“College is that step before University, which I wasn’t ready for at all. But going to the College gave me the support, drive and inspiration to work hard, and prepare me for my next steps… I honestly don’t think I would be doing art - which is what I live and breathe now - if I had never gone to Forth Valley College.
“The Third Year Degree Show was a highlight for me, it’s such an exciting experience, producing work over so many months and exhibiting at the end of the year. Inviting guests, businesses, family and friends to celebrate you and your peers’ achievements.
“You work towards your degree show for so long, and it’s amazing how everyone comes together on the night. There are prizes offered, which I was lucky enough to win one, and I sold one of my works to an Art Gallery which felt so rewarding. It’s such a great way to give the students a platform for opportunities to grow.”