Meet our students and graduates

André Sampson

“I chose to study at Elam because I wanted a degree from an internationally recognised university, and because this art school has a record of producing artists of the highest calibre across a range of styles. At Elam you are only limited by your ideas.

“I’m really enjoying being surrounded by creative minds, engaging in critical discussions, developing ideas and coming up with creative solutions. I have regained confidence in my ability as an artist, and would like to begin exhibiting regularly again after graduation. Other possibilities for the future include gallery, teaching, or advisory roles.”

André is currently in her third year of a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA).

Zac Langdon-Pole

"I chose to study Fine Arts at Elam to develop my artistic practice. The opportunity to meet and engage with people to explore the world of art has been invaluable. Elam offers an open learning structure that allows for a lot of creative movement, and it has also challenged me to work through a position within art. The staff are excellent – coming from diverse backgrounds, they offer in-depth knowledge, skills and experiences."

Zac is currently in his third year of a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA).

Mei Cooper

“I chose to study Fine Arts at Elam as I enjoyed studying art at high school and I wasn’t sure what I would do if I wasn’t doing something creative.

Elam is teaching me how to make art within a contemporary context, to think critically and to communicate clearly. When I graduate I plan to work as a practising artist, both in New Zealand and internationally. I would also like to go on to postgraduate study and gain a Master of Fine Arts at some point.”

Mei is currently in her second year of a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA).

Clint Watkins

“Elam School of Fine Arts at The University of Auckland provides a rich and resourceful environment for artistic research, development and practice. Studying in this environment gives me the opportunity to engage with a wide range of artists. Elam offers state-of-the-art training, facilities and studios for the creation and production of high quality artwork.

“As a DocFA candidate I was awarded a Doctoral Scholarship from The University of Auckland, which provides me with valuable financial support for full-time artistic practice and research.

“This year I have embarked upon a large body of work, some of which has been exhibited locally and internationally. I have performed sound work at a variety of festivals and sound art events, and have had my sound compositions released on an independent European record label. My current projects include sound composition, sonic objects/sculpture, video loop installation and pure tone video distortion series.”

Clint is currently studying for a Doctor of Fine Arts (DocFA).

Jessica Pearless

“An interest in fine art from an early age prompted me to include art in my subjects at school, and my goal then was to study at New Zealand's leading university. My experience as an undergraduate confirmed Elam School of Fine Arts as the obvious choice for postgraduate studies, along with the chance to gain a scholarship, the skilled staff, teaching opportunities and the excellent facilities available to students.

“During my postgraduate studies I plan to articulate my practice and develop further skills to enrich my work as a contemporary practitioner of painting and installation. When I’ve completed my MFA I plan to continue my work as a practising artist and active member of the visual arts community in New Zealand."

Jessica is currently studying for a Master of Fine Arts (MFA).

Rangituhia Hollis

“Initially I chose to study at Elam because it is relatively close to home, as well as the people and the content that has informed my practice. I also wanted to push my research into virtual mediums such as animation and video games beyond the obvious or arbitrary conclusions.

“While studying Fine Arts at Elam I received a scholarship to attend the Cityscapers Studio held at Edinburgh University, where the collaborative project I developed along with two Australian architecture students was awarded the overall prize. I also participated in a New Artists exhibition entitled ‘Architecture for the Nation’ at Artspace, Auckland. And in 2009 I was fortunate to receive a University of Auckland Graduate Scholarship, which has made it much easier to continue my studies."

Rangituhia is currently studying for a Master of Fine Arts.