Stu Burke

Why did you choose to study fine art?

I knew the calibre of teaching on the MA would be excellent as I’d studied previously with some of the course lecturers. I wasn’t disappointed.

How did you find the course?

The best thing about the course is the freedom to experiment and develop your work. Exploring my creativity and sharing that with others is very important to me as an artist. The lecturers are incredibly supportive, and their knowledge is second to none.

MIMA’s Creative Exchange residency is a fantastic opportunity to work with an art institution and develop my skills. Exposure to visiting artists and regular exhibitions give experience of curating, events management and marketing, and excellent networking opportunities. There is also space to develop ideas and fulfil projects including wood workshops, print rooms and Mac suites.

What do you like about the campus?

Its central location makes commuting easy. As a student, Middlesbrough is a wonderful hub for the arts. MIMA, Platform A and House of Blah Blah are all on our doorstep, inspiring us.

On campus, there is an abundance of amenities to grab lunch or a coffee, and the Student’s Union is convenient to work on projects or socialise after a long day.

Would you recommend Teesside and your course?

I speak fondly about my time studying MA Fine Art and recommend the University during my artist talks. The course is an excellent learning and student experience.

What are you doing now?

I have continued my artistic practice and I am studying for a practice-based PhD in Fine Art. This is only possible thanks to my time on the MA Fine Art course. Teesside University gave me the knowledge, ambition, and confidence to attain a higher level of education.

I am also co-director and curator at Gloam Gallery. Since 2019, I have curated numerous exhibitions and run gallery exchanges with other UK artist-led spaces, which have included Two Queens, Leicester and General Practice, Lincoln. Gloam also houses nine artist studios, running alongside the gallery, allowing Sheffield-based artists affordable space to develop their practice.