Izzy Spriggs

I am a process-led artist, focusing on the relationship between space, sculpture and mark making. My practice is pushed by the unknown of material proprieties and the play surrounding exploring them. 

My practice is a constant state of experimentation and desire to make. Especially in my final year at leeds, I had opportunity and encouragement to explore my fascination with materials and learning new techniques in making.  I was offered opportunities to learn new skills, such as various methods of casting, print and welding. In addition we were taken to Frieze to see contemporary artists, and encouraged to go to exhibitions going on in and around Leeds. All these experiences were beneficial in exposing us to plethora of artists and ideas. 

Whilst at Leeds, I also had the opportunity to be involved in running our final year degree show. Unlike a lot of other universities, Leeds leaves the organisation of setting up the show completely to the students. I learnt invaluable skills and understanding in the organisation and process of curating an exhibition. This experience grew my confidence and made me want to pursue directing/curating as a future career. I am in the process of curating other exhibitions with my co-curator from the degree show. 

This course stood out to me as it was an opportunity to have both practical and a more theoretical balance within a Fine Art degree. Cultural studies, which was half of my degree, worked well with, and influenced the conceptual understanding of my practice. Additionally, the opportunities for exhibitions throughout the three years and 24/7 access to the studio, were big draws to the course and the school for me. These became the aspects that I enjoyed most. 

The unlimited access and the studio culture within my time at Leeds became so important and necessary to my practice. As I started working with cement and other materials, being able to access my work whenever was important when dealing with setting times and larger works. Furthermore, having a buzz and an atmosphere in the studio encouraged development within my practice, and confidence in speaking about mine and others work. 

A highlight to the school and a factor which encouraged a new level of technical knowledge to my practice, was the support received from the technicians in the School. There are many opportunities to learn new skills and making techniques through the guidance and expertise of the technicians. Additionally, I felt that lecturers and tutors offered advice and feedback which allowed me to challenge myself and ultimately made me more confident. As well as, always offering individual support and guidance whenever needed. During my time at Leeds I felt supported not only creatively and academically by my school. But I also felt that Alison in Student Support offered great practical support and solutions when personal issues would affect academic obligations. 

Lastly, what drew me to this course and a reason why I enjoyed the last three years so much, was due to Leeds. Leeds and the surrounding Yorkshire area offer so many opportunities to be immersed in art, music and culture. When it feels as if the arts and funding for the arts is disappearing, Leeds and creative organisations in Leeds are resisting against this. 

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