Locating the Creative Space

“We all need to have a creative outlet – a window, a space – so we don’t lose track of

ourselves”.

The words of Fischer fester in the mind of a student artist who struggles for

stimulation at university life. Creatives desire growth and potential, and for St

Andrews, the artist pleads for the pursuit of inventiveness to become a more focused, isolated, and developed activity. Our intellect and academia are incredibly nurtured; however, the creative mind requires just as much attention. As a student artist, the struggle for an artistic outlet is prominent and real. According to Edward de Bono, “There is no doubt that creativity is the most important human resource of all. Without creativity, there would be no progress”. De Bono hits the mark. Creativity as an outlet is key to the process, and progress, of life, and especially at an academically driven university like St Andrews.

The University, it seems, lacks a platform for student artists. Whilst the Art Society provides weekly life drawing sessions, this only allows for stimulation, not exposure. The space for a student artist to thrive in ambition is neglected and instead only teased. The ability to explore talent is definitely handled by St Andrews’ societies, however, the next step of progression, not so much. The university and student artists require and crave a space for artistic outlet with the desired exposure required for artistic success and establishment.

A recently emerging art organisation, Craft House makes up for what the university consistently lacks. This new platform explores “the next step”. The group will provide

the imperative space for artist students to showcase and sell their work, in other words,

excel as an established artist at university. Craft House fosters the space desired by student

artists in which passion and creativity is supported and shared effectively. The artists are

provided with exposure and a potential for connection with both student and non-

student buyers. Artistic passion and ambition are paramount within one’s busy academic life, and that is what Craft House strives to raise to greater prominence.

The team is formed of a myriad of artists, ranging from fine art to poetry, and even the art of rock balancing. The space has created endeavours that have constructed a community where passion and ambition are stimulated and have been taken seriously for student artists.

A balance, which is required for student artists, is introduced between academia and art. This balance is stimulated by the artistic outlet as an escape from the incessant intensity of academic stress and system. Opportunity proves integral to university life, and a plea for artistic opportunity grows by the year. Craft House answers to this call.

The Craft House's effort for artists is far-reaching, indiscriminate regardless of style and skill, and unremitting. If there has been any predilection in attaching your passion to a platform, then here is your opportunity; and as Edward de Bono has deftly surmised, a chance to progress.

Illustration: Olivia Jones