We are delighted to announce that Sherilyn, one of our University of the Arts London Foundation in Art and Design students, has had her exceptional artwork selected by UAL for the Origins Creatives Exhibition 2026.

Sherilyn received offers from University College of London (UCL), University of Arts London (UAL) and Goldsmiths, University of London. However, she decided to apply to University College London Slade School of Fine Arts, a globally recognised institution for experimental art techniques and practices.

We spoke to her about her experience studying art with us here at MPW London.

Why did you choose MPW London?

I chose MPW London because of its strategic location, situated between some of London’s most inspiring cultural and artistic spaces, such as the National History Museum and the Saatchi Gallery. Being surrounded by such a creative environment allows me to constantly engage with art and draw inspiration from my surroundings. The small class sizes at MPW also provide a more interactive and personalised learning experience, allowing students to receive individual guidance and meaningful feedback from experienced tutors. The supportive teaching environment has helped me develop my skills, confidence, and artistic identity throughout my foundation journey.

_{Sherilyn next to her work at the MPW London Art Exhibition}

What was the most difficult thing you experienced after enrolling in the MPW UAL Foundation Diploma in Art & Design?

The most challenging aspect after enrolling in the MPW UAL Foundation Diploma was changing my mindset towards art. Initially, I was very traditional in my approach and preferred to focus on mastering one specific medium rather than exploring different possibilities. However, throughout the course, I gradually became more open to experimentation. Exploring new materials and techniques allowed me to discover different ways of expressing my ideas and helped me develop a unique visual language. This process pushed me beyond my comfort zone and transformed the way I approach artmaking.

How much time did you spend studying and working on your portfolio?

Throughout the course, I was highly dedicated and committed to developing my portfolio. On weekdays, I typically worked from around 8am until 1am, focusing on research, experimentation, and refining my artworks. During weekends, I usually spent around 10am to 4pm working on my portfolio, while also visiting art galleries and exhibitions for inspiration and creative research. I found the process rewarding as it allowed me to continuously improve and develop my artistic practice.

What kind of support from MPW did you find useful for your studies?

The support I received from MPW was one of the most valuable aspects of my experience. The tutors and Director of Studies consistently provided thoughtful feedback and encouraged me to challenge myself, explore new ideas, and expand my creative boundaries. MPW’s wide range of facilities also played an important role in my development as an artist. Having access to spaces such as the textiles room and photography studios allowed me to experiment with different disciplines, including textiles, photography, cyanotypes, gel plate printing, ceramics, air-dry clay, watercolour, and acrylic painting. Additionally, having many art materials provided by MPW allowed me to focus more on developing my concepts and producing meaningful work rather than worrying about access to resources.

_{Attendees admiring Sherilyn’s work}

How are the teachers at MPW compared to those in a Singaporean school?

The tutors at MPW are highly experienced and focus on nurturing each student’s individual artistic style. Rather than encouraging students to follow a fixed approach, they guide us in discovering our own creative voice and expressing our ideas both conceptually and visually. Compared to my experience in Singaporean schools, I feel that art education in Singapore is often more focused on technical ability and traditional methods, with an emphasis on realism and precision. At MPW, there is greater encouragement to experiment, question ideas, and develop a personal artistic language. One tutor I would especially like to commend is Greg. His extensive experience as an artist and his deep knowledge of various materials and techniques have made him an exceptional mentor. He provides valuable guidance and encouragement, helping students explore their potential and grow as artists.

What do you do in your spare time?

During my spare time, I enjoy painting and travelling. Being a wanderlust has become an important source of inspiration for my artistic practice. I believe that as an artist, it is important to remain open to a wide range of experiences, whether they are joyful, bittersweet, or challenging. Through my travels to Canterbury, Brighton, Cornwall, Paris, and Iceland, I have encountered different landscapes, cultures, and emotions. These experiences have influenced my perspective and continue to inspire the concepts and narratives behind my artwork.

What are your tips for settling into life in the UK as a Singaporean student?

As a Singaporean student, I found adapting to life in the UK relatively smooth. Having a Singaporean restaurant near MPW was comforting, as it provided a sense of familiarity and helped me feel connected to home while adjusting to a new environment. Beyond that, MPW London’s clubs and societies helped students to meet new people and build friendships. Embracing opportunities to socialise and interact with students from different backgrounds makes the student life in the UK more enjoyable.

_{Sherilyn and more of her work}