Alexandra Kane - BA (Hons) Fine Art - Painting

With an invisible disability, Alexandra has created an interactive installation to be enjoyed by all ages and abilities. Her project, is deeply rooted in the concept of accessibility, a core value of hers.

The goal of her show is to evoke a sense of childlike wonder and joy in the viewers. She has carefully selected colour schemes based on psychological principles that enhance happiness to achieve this.

As part of her installation, the flowers carry significant meanings, particularly the Gerberas, which symbolize gratitude. This choice reflects my deep appreciation for my family, who supported me through past traumas.

The centrepiece of my show is a 9-foot installation designed to immerse viewers in a world of happiness and wonder. I hope that as people experience the installation, they will feel a sense of joy and nostalgia, reconnecting with the simple pleasures of childhood.

"I had dreamed of coming to Gray's School of Art since childhood. From a young age, I was captivated by arts and crafts, knowing deep down that an art career was my true calling. The decision to apply to Gray's was not only driven by my passion for art, but also by practical considerations. As a local resident with ongoing health issues, it was crucial for me to say close to my family and medical care. Gray's offered the perfect solution.

"Gray's state-of-the-art facilities and resources were another significant draw. I was particularly impressed by their well-equipped studios, digital art tools, and extensive library, all of which promised to provide an enriching environment for my artistic development. Moreover, the opportunity to learn from experienced and supportive faculty members at Gray’s reinforced my decision. I knew that being in such a nurturing and resource-rich environment would enable me to thrive personally and artistically."

Fast forward four years, and Alexandra says her time at Gray's has gone so fast! 

"My experience at Gray's has been a whirlwind. Transitioning from college to university education was initially difficult, and I often struggled to find my footing. I was filled with self-doubt during my first year and the early part of my second year. However, everything changed in the second semester of my second year, thanks to the unwavering support and guidance of my lecturer. With her encouragement to explore and challenge my abilities was life-changing.

"With her support, I nurtured my skills in ways I previously thought impossible. I pushed the boundaries of what "painting" could be by experimenting with digital, three-dimensional, and alternative media beyond traditional painting. This exploration and freedom to innovate were crucial in shaping me into the artist I am today."

During her last semester in fourth year, Alexandra chose to participate in the BP Tutoring Scheme, so that she could gain an insight into teaching at secondary school level. She had a placement at Hazel Head Academy and had the opportunity to work with teachers and students across various year groups.

"Working with such a diverse range of students allowed me to develop valuable classroom assistance skills. I helped exam-ready students put together their portfolios for grading, shared my expertise in design, and taught new techniques for creating and utilizing materials. Additionally, I provided feedback on areas that could be further explored."