Alumni

Jack Ord

Where are you doing now?

While continuing with my own artistic practice, I am in the process of applying for Arts Council funding to open an innovative art centre in the region. My vision is to create a place where local emerging artists can develop their work in on-site studios, exhibit the fruits of their labour in a gallery space and where people from all walks of life can come together and engage in a creative dialogue.

How did studying at Northumbria help you achieve your career goals / give your career an edge?

I had access to a top-of-the-range University library and the expertise of professionals and academics alike. I was able to build networks and became involved with a community-focused arts organisation just down the road in Durham, led by a Northumbria University BA (Hons) Contemporary Photographic Practice graduate. I have exhibited with them, helped with the running of several of their events and it has inspired me to go forward with a similar venture.

What was the best thing about your course?

Taking a Visual Arts course at Northumbria University gave me the opportunity to become familiar with the cultural scene in Newcastle and the surrounding area, become involved with projects within and outside of the University and open my mind to a world of possibilities.

Who inspired you the most, and why?

The person I looked up to most of all during the three years was my lecturer for the Art History module, Dr Malcolm Gee. He had no end of subject-specific knowledge, every word he spoke was deep and insightful and I think he was a lot of people's favourite.

Which skills/knowledge did you learn on your course that you use most now/throughout your career?

I learnt about the various ways that art can be put to good use in wider society.

What did you enjoy most about your time at Northumbria University?

I had the freedom to develop my work fluidly, in the company of people with similar interests. I met loads of great people and am still in touch with most of them.

What advice would you give somebody who is thinking of studying at Northumbria?

I would fully recommend studying at Northumbria. A bit like the city in which it is situated, it's a compact university with a very modern, cool and very "now" feel to it.