Ciara Gan is currently finishing her Bachelor degree in Management Informations Systems with a specialisation in Enterprise Systems at Ateneo de Manila University in the Philippines. She decided to take a leap into the world of art and joined our 3-week Contemporary Fine Art Practice programme in Summer 2024.
How was studying abroad in London?
Studying abroad in London was an incredible experience, almost surreal at times. I would look around and think, how is this all real? The city's vibrant celebration of creativity made every day an adventure. I enjoyed exploring the numerous art galleries, beautiful parks, and endless activities. It’s hard to say what my favourite thing about this city is when everything about it is so special.
What is your favourite memory of studying abroad?
There are so many to choose from, but I think my favourite memory was making a short film with a group of girls. That project brought us all together. Being in a creative environment and meeting people who share the same passions made feel at home– and I’m grateful that studying abroad helped us all experience the city's culture while having organized activities planned by the university.
What did you enjoy about your classes?
Apart from connecting with an incredibly talented and inspiring set of people, I found immense joy in challenging my traditional views on art. Exploring how contemporary art shatters conventional boundaries was definitely interesting; and the initial activities, such as blind portrait drawing and clay sculpting, were so much fun. Given my non-art school background I also experienced a studio environment for the first time. I enjoyed every second being there; and I especially love the mess that we all make.
Can you tell us about a project you were particularly excited about?
The final project was the one I was most excited to create. Our entire class occupied the studio, each of us working in our unique way, and the collective energy was incredibly inspiring. I loved how we could paint on the walls and make our artworks as large as we wanted. Being surrounded by such a dynamic and creative atmosphere made the experience truly special.
My final artwork, called “Remember?”, came about because I was thinking of trees. This stemmed thoughts on how my siblings and I are growing up and being uprooted from the Philippines. The piece is an ode to my childhood, and the process of creating “Remember?” was both deeply personal and creatively demanding, since I had to delve deep into my past. It challenged me more than the other projects because it involved extensive conceptualizing, collecting memorabilia, and engaging in group critiques.
Why did you choose UAL Summer Study Abroad?
London’s renowned art scene and its vibrant, diverse environment offered a unique opportunity to connect with people from all walks of life. The campus itself was stunning and expansive, creating an ideal setting for creativity. We had the chance to attend talks by various artists, learn directly from our tutors, and immerse ourselves in artmaking. Looking back, I feel proud of myself for traveling 7,000 miles across the globe to learn something I’m passionate about.
How do you think your study abroad experience will help you with your future endeavours?
I definitely believe my study abroad experience will positively impact my future endeavours. Artistically, it has encouraged me to be more flexible and authentic in my practice, allowing me to create work that resonates with me personally rather than adhering to traditional standards of aesthetics. The connections I’ve made with people from diverse backgrounds have shown me the value of forming meaningful relationships across cultures and have deepened my appreciation for collaborative environments. Additionally, this experience has enhanced my adaptability and resilience, qualities that will undoubtedly serve me well in any future projects or challenges I undertake.
What is the most valuable thing you learnt from the experience?
The most valuable thing I learned from my study abroad experience is I am capable of figuring anything out. Before my first day of the program, I was anxious about making friends and navigating a new environment, especially without an art school background. I was also apprehensive about being alone in a foreign city for the first time. My advice is to take risks—enrol in the classes you’ve always wanted, reach out to people you want to connect with, and create art that resonates with you. Everything eventually falls into place, and the experience becomes incredibly rewarding.
Is there anything you want to share with future study abroad students/ future applicants?
I’d advise future study abroad students to embrace the experience wholeheartedly—you’ll never regret it. Stepping out of your comfort zone will not only help you grow but also deepen your understanding of your passions. Make sure to immerse yourself in both your classes and the city itself. London, in particular, has a way of teaching and inspiring you in ways you might not anticipate. Reflecting on my study abroad journey, I realize it has given me a lifetime of experiences, forged friendships with people from around the globe, and expanded my perspective on the world.
Would you recommend the experience at UAL?
I would certainly recommend the Summer Study Abroad experience at UAL. It was, without a doubt, the highlight of my year—a transformative month that significantly contributed to both my personal and artistic development.
