Artistic twins enjoy a fine graduation

Twin sisters Sarah and Rachel Patterson have shared a passion for art from a very early age. Their joint enthusiasm has paid off, as they both graduated on the same day from the University of Teesside, each with a BA (Hons) Fine Art.

Sarah and Rachel, 23, are from Yarm. They followed the same artistic route from Conyers School to Cleveland College of Art & Design, where they first achieved foundation diplomas in Art and Design, followed by the Fine Art degree. Art was a major interest for the twins, even before they started school.

Rachel said: ‘I’ve always liked drawing; I remember tracing Garfield the cat when I was a little girl. I enjoyed the whole variety of the degree and it was nice to collaborate with Sarah. I also helped Sarah with the plastering work required by the course; it was quite messy so I think it was nice for her to have someone to help with the labouring!

‘At first the course tutors had the set idea that we were exactly the same. By the second year they were able to see that we were different. Although our parents still can’t tell us apart on occasions! Our sister Helen can though.’

Sarah said: ‘Rachel and I have different artistic interests - she prefers illustration whereas I like sculpture, all the hands on work. As Rachel said, it was good to share a studio and bounce ideas off each other. Rachel and I are pretty similar; we have the same friends and shared interests. Although I am two inches taller and Rachel says I’m bossier, which I’m not! Our parents Bob and Sue are very pleased for us.’

The twins are aiming to continue their artistic pursuits. Sarah hopes to study for an art therapy qualification and Rachel an illustrator’s course.

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