Talented young artist wanted by five top art schools

A TALENTED artist, whose A Level work depicted the despair of dementia, has chosen to study at world-leading university UAL having secured places at five leading art schools.

Vicky Chen, who came to Dame Allan’s Schools, in Newcastle, from her hometown of Shenzhen, in China, said art had been ‘healing’ during the pandemic, as today she celebrates an A* in the subject.

The 18-year-old will go on to take a three-year Graphic Design Communication course at the University of Arts London – ranked second for Art and Design education in the ‘QS University World Rankings by Subject’ - having also been offered coveted places at Goldsmiths, The Glasgow School of Art, the University of Westminster and Edinburgh College of Art.

Vicky, who also achieved an A in A Level Chinese, and Bs in Mathematics and Business, said: “I’m so happy with my results and excited to be starting my degree at UAL in September. I’ve already been taking a Foundation Plus course at UAL’s Chelsea campus in preparation, which has been fantastic.”

Vicky, who displayed a natural talent in art at a young age, came to Dame Allan’s in Year 12, in September 2020, to take advantage of the school’s renowned art department. Millions of pounds are currently being invested in modern art facilities and an airy exhibition space.   

She said: “Art is my true passion and Dame Allan’s allowed me to experiment in so many different techniques, from cyanotype art and lino print to life drawing and oil painting, ensuring I was able to really grow as an artist.”

Vicky, who lived with a guardian in Newcastle, was unable to return home to China during her A Level years due to Covid regulations, and said art had kept her feeling positive during times of isolation.

“Lockdowns and restrictions made me feel lonely and quite low at times, but it was art that kept me thinking positively. Teachers would set assessments that were not only enjoyable, but also healing,” she said.

“The art rooms at Dame Allan’s were a place of shelter for me. I don’t even see art as a subject – it’s a form of relaxation and expression; it’s my calling.”

Vicky chose to illustrate the struggles associated with dementia for her final A Level oil painting. “I wanted to demonstrate how memories fade and how this can affect the whole family as the severity of symptoms increases. It was an interesting concept to explore and develop,” she explained.

Will Scott, Principal of Dame Allan’s Schools, said: “Vicky displays such a flair for art and has created many impressive pieces of work while studying here, that it came as no surprise when she was offered places at many leading establishments.

“Dame Allan’s has a thriving art department, and the talents of those like Vicky are the very reason the Schools are investing in a large exhibition space and new art classrooms to ensure we continue to offer the very best facilities in the North East.”