Philippa Tuffin

I’m Pip, and I recently graduated from the University of Leeds with a First Degree Honours in Fine Art BA. During my time at University, I developed a strong interest for exploring the intersection of art and environmentalism, culminating in my final year dissertation. In addition to my academic work, I also explored practical ways to address sustainability within the Fine Art Building. I developed two solutions aimed at reducing creative material waste. Recently, these solutions were recognised by the Regional Youth Climate Assembly for Yorkshire and Humber. 

Shortly after graduation, I joined SAIL (Sustainable Arts in Leeds), as a full time Project Assistant. SAIL is a membership network of the creative and cultural sector of West Yorkshire, with the ambition to work collaboratively to embed sustainability in our members’ operations, projects and communications. I’ve now been working for SAIL for 7 months and have had the opportunity to continue my commitment to exploring the role the creative and cultural sector can playing throughout climate change. 

Can you tell us about your practice now and how it has developed?

In my final year studying Fine Art in 2023 at the University of Leeds I created two solutions to reducing waste in the building that were also aligned with the Leeds Climate Action plan to encourage sustainable consumption and production patterns. I began ‘Project Matter’ with the purpose of: reducing creative material waste, encouraging a circular economy, lessening the economic challenge for students, and to create a community platform. The inspiration for Project Matter stemmed from my experience in the visual arts industry, where I have seen tremendous amounts of waste material that carry potential if approached with a creative mindset. 

The first solution was a website for students and technicians to post photographs of items, materials, tools that they no longer wanted and could be shared with other users. The second solutions was the ‘Project Matter Transition Trolley’, a mobile structure that could store larger materials that could be shared amongst the whole building. 

 

Both solutions gained considerable interest, and sparked a conversation in the building which led to a clear understanding that students wanted to reduce their material waste and really care about making a positive change as artists. From users’ feedback of the solutions it became apparent that upgrading the website to an app would dramatically increase user engagement and user experience. It also was evident that the solution needed to expand beyond just the Fine art Building, and needed to reach other university student in Leeds. I’m now taking this feedback on board and am in the process of developing an app!

How do you think the skills, knowledge and experiences you gained at Leeds helped with your career?

The skills, knowledge, and experiences I gained at Leeds have been invaluable in shaping my career trajectory and my personal development. When I first started university, public speaking was a daunting prospect for me. However, through the support and opportunities provided by the course, I gradually honed this skill. Each group critique and presentation of my artwork to peers and tutors helped my confidence and ability to articulate my practice! 

My time at Leeds also helped develop my communication skills through connecting with people beyond my course, particularly in the realm of sustainability. Whether it was reaching out via email or arranging meetings, I found it surprisingly easy to engage with lectures, students, and members of the sustainability team. These interactions exposed me to so much knowledge and expertise which I never anticipated and has now left me excited to go into every conversation as I found there was always something new to learn!

What made you want to apply to your course and to Leeds?

I was drawn to the Fine Art course because of the balance it offered between developing my creative skills and learning about the theoretical aspects of Fine Art, which was exactly what I was looking for. The 24-hour access to the studio facilities was also a significant factor in my decision, as having the freedom to the space felt very exciting! 

What aspects of the course did you enjoy the most? 

What at first seemed daunting but turned out to be the most interesting experience was the dissertation. One of the highlights of my dissertation was conducting interviews with artists who were concerned about environmental issues. These conversations were incredibly rewarding and a unique experience. Working closely with my dissertation supervisor, Anna Douglas was a great experience, her guidance and support was enriching and each meeting left me with new ideas and knowledge.

What would you say to anyone thinking of applying to your course?

To anyone considering applying to university, I would encourage you to be proactive in seeking answers to any of your questions, no matter how big or small. Don’t hesitate to reach out and connect with people, both within and outside your program. You never know what valuable insights you might gain from unexpected conversations that could potentially transform your artistic practice and research!  

Read about undergraduate courses at the School of Fine Art, History of Art and Cultural Studies.