UAL Level 3 and 4 Foundation Diploma in Art and Design students in London recently explored two contemporary art galleries in the Bermondsey area, both offering valuable insight into creative processes closely linked to their studies.
Their first stop was the White Cube Gallery, where students encountered large-scale works by internationally renowned Chinese artist Cai Guo-Qiang. Known for his ambitious approach and experimental use of materials, Guo-Qiang’s work encouraged students to think critically about scale, process, and impact. Students spent time carefully observing the artworks, making detailed studies in their sketchbooks and taking photographs to support their research and creative development.
After enjoying lunch together, the group continued to the Drawing Room Gallery to visit the exhibition The Land Sings Back. This exhibition explored themes connected to the natural world and featured work by South Asian, African, and Caribbean artists. The diverse range of drawing techniques and processes on display inspired students to experiment with new ways of mark-making and visual storytelling. Once again, students responded through observational drawing, capturing ideas and techniques in their sketchbooks.
The visit offered students the opportunity to engage directly with contemporary artworks, deepen their understanding of creative practice, and reflect on how artists communicate ideas through different processes and materials.
Below are a few examples of students’ studies of the various artworks.
Work by Yu-An Chen (Alisha)
Work by Aruzhan Kimbekova
Work by Yu-An Chen (Alisha)
Work by Hsin-Ti Chen (Cindy)
