Michele shares how grief inspired her final major project

Whilst in her final year of study, BA (Hons) Fine Art student, Michele Waldron-Cooper sadly experienced the sudden death of her friend and peer. The grief she felt whilst working on her project inspired the final outcome, a large painting and demonic depiction of Putin.

We caught up with Michele, who shares her personal journey of the project, and what she is planning for the future:

Hi Michelle, tell us a bit about your final major project:

My final piece is a large painting and demonic depiction of Putin. I needed to channel the pain I felt from loss into a personal final piece. When painting waves of grief would hit me which I would let go of through my work.

Please tell us about the inspiration behind your work:

My friend and peer suddenly passed away in January. We were going to continue working together as artists in the community after graduation. I needed something meaningful and painful to help myself obtain closure. My work is also for the people of Ukraine. A great deal of time was spent learning about their beautiful wheat fields and how wheat is seen to be a community bonding and holistic element, especially at Christmas to the Ukrainian culture. It is also depicted in their national flag. I learned some basic wheat weaving.

What have you enjoyed most about your time at Solent?

Memories shared in the studios. With both peers and tutors. Working in the sculpture workshop. Learning. Learning everything and anything I could lay my hands on.

What’s coming up next for you?

Working on my portfolio is my primary goal. I would love to study a Masters in painting in a year’s time.

What advice would you give to other students?

Never sit back and relax. Anything you set your heart on can only be obtained from shear hard work and determination. Listen to everything your tutors tell you. Absorb it like a sponge.