Congratulations to Anna Tompkinson, on her online solo show with Pink-Collar Gallery, which explores the impact of lockdown on the development of her practice. We caught up with Anna to find out more about landing her solo show, studying as a BA (Hons) Fine Art student and working in the creative community. Read on to find out more.

Tell us about your online solo show?

The exhibition focuses around ideas of domesticity and self-identity. It explores the notion of place and how being in lockdown has impacted the development of my practice. It will be composed of a series of photographs that depict domestic interiors and how we interact with our daily environment. I’m really looking forward to working with Pink-Collar Gallery on this project.

How did you get involved?

The owner and curator of Pink-Collar Gallery, Michaela Wetherell, approached me after seeing my work in ‘Border Crossing’ exhibition at Pineapple Black. We discussed the prospect of an exhibition whilst I volunteered at her place of work.

Can you please describe the works and concepts within the show?

My work explores the notion of humanity conveyed through domestic objects and spaces. This show features analogue photographs taken around my home of my personal objects and daily environments. I aim to capture a sense of domestic relatability throughout my body of work; allowing the places and objects I photograph to convey a sense of my lifestyle and daily movements, which others may relate to.

Tell us about any other projects that you are working on?

I have just handed in my Dissertation, which looked into ‘Photography’s Expanded Field’, and how photography can be considered as a sculptural entity. This ties into my practical work well, as I am exploring the notion of combining photography with sculptural forms and objects. I am currently working on the last practical module of my degree, where I am continuing to research domesticity and the self. After this module, we all exhibit in the Final Degree Show held on campus, which I’m really looking forward to!

How is The Northern School of Art Special for you?

The Northern School of Art is important to me as it has given me a place to develop and grow my practice with lots of support and guidance. The university has given us a platform to grow and to allow our practice to flourish. It’s been a wonderful place to study, and will always be a place I value for guidance and advice.

Any advice for students thinking of studying fine art?

Studying a Fine Art degree allows you to gain and develop practical skills that you may not have the opportunity to study elsewhere. I am constantly learning about different approaches and mediums to art, which is encouraged especially during the first year of the degree. Oil painting, welding, screen-printing and sewing, alongside traditional methods of painting, sculpture and photography, are amongst the many techniques shown and taught to you on the course. The Northern School of Art is a great place to explore different art mediums and to gain confidence in your work. I started my degree as a painter, but after being given the opportunities to try different practices, I moved onto sculpture and photography. Being surrounded by experienced and skilful lecturers, who are also practicing artists, is really beneficial to gaining an insight into the professional art world. The course is great for everyone, and really helps to identify and pursue the student’s strengths.

To see more of her work you can visit Anna’s Instagram @annatompkinson or her Website: annatompkinsonartist.co.uk.

If you are interested in studying Fine Art at degree level we have a well established course with strong links to the creative community. Find out more here.