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Financial AidJanuary 2003
I am writing to you with regards to financial support at postgraduate level. Funding for higher education of this kind is not widely available and I have found it difficult to gain financial assistance for my course. I was born and raised in Wales, where I completed my education. I have recently graduated with a 1st in Textile Design from The West Wales School of the Arts in Carmarthen. I have created sculpture, jewellery, installations and interior furnishings through my innovative use of knitting. I have won two prestigious local and national awards, 'The Lucienne Day/Textile Society' award, and 'The Student of the Year Award' from West Wales School of Art. I have been offered a place at the Royal College of Art to study an MA in Constructed Textiles.
I
have the motivation, talent and passion for what I
do, but this can only get me so far, the only thing
that holds me back from achieving my dreams is the
finance to do it! The cost of living in London is
very high, as well as the cost of tuition fees, which
are over £3,000 per year, not to mention the
cost of materials.
Kelly Jenkins
Ed: This problem does not only affect Kelly,
but all of us who feel passionate about textiles and
the artists of the future. These young artists must
be educated and that costs!
Lack of funding inevitably results in a lowering of standards, as places are taken up based on ability to pay as well as ability. Once on a course, a preoccupation with earning a living must stifle creativity. I am not suggesting students should not have jobs and contribute to their education but this should not be their primary concern. Have you experienced this first hand? Your comments would be most welcome.