Author: Roisin Astell

The dreaded word for many students: Results day

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I just wanted to write a quick blog post wishing every one out there that is receiving A-Level results to tomorrow a big good luck, although, you won’t need it as I am sure many (if not everyone (!)) have worked so hard. I know it’s easy saying this, but, if you don’t get the results that you desired it’s not the end of the world. Results day for me was probably the worst days of my life. The night before I would be physically sick, not eat anything, get very little sleep and cry …a lot. One tactic that I did find helpful is something called Mindfulness. Mindfulness is the practice of just situating yourself in the present – focus on your breathing, all of your senses – for example, thinking about what does your fingers feel like? Weird I know, but if you attempt to focus your mind on your body, position and surroundings, this may help take your thoughts away from the stresses of what is to come and make you realise that you …

Amsterdam – 2014

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Originally posted on Mal of the World:
Few European cities are steeped in contrast and contradiction to the same extent as the Dutch capital, Amsterdam. The romance and culture surrounding its many canals, cobbled streets and museums, combined with a liberal attitude toward drugs and prostitution, make it a memorable destination – whatever your intentions. A typical street in Amsterdam Having booked an apartment through AirB&B, my girlfriend and I arrived on a late flight from London and navigated our way to our accommodation with surprising ease. Being from London, you expect the public transport in a major European capital to be both uncomfortable and unreliable, but apparently that’s just a London thing. A quick train, followed by a free ferry across to the north island, and we were there. Our beautiful apartment Our first day began with a walk into the centre of Amsterdam. With just the weekend at our disposal, and so many possible things to do, we had to prioritise. By prioritise, I mean of course that my girlfriend had certain things…

Blogging life

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As my time draws near to giving the baton to another fellow student in the History of Art department to take over the running of the student blog, I have been thinking a lot about the future of this blog. Many probably do not know that I have used to have my own personal blog on a different domain, however, with the role of running this student blog I have long neglected my other site! For that reason, and the reason that I am really proud of this blog, I will now make this my new personal site! Although I will begin taking my posts in a different direction – mainly focusing on my time in Paris this year (Gulp, I am getting nervous!), I will still continue to have my posts about History of Art. This year I will begin my application to Masters programmes, and so this blog will also document this personal journey of mine.   So keep checking for updates on my gap-year, Masters applications, tips and general guides for studying …

J’ai fini!

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Wow, I cannot quite believe that I am writing this post. It’s official. Yesterday I graduated from York with a First! I am over the moon! It was such a lovely ceremony, and it was great to see everyone before and after. Despite my gown taking every opportunity to try and wriggle its way off me, I managed to survive the graduate fashion. After the graduation ceremony, the History of Art department hosted a lovely get together with some yummy pastries and drinks! From there, me and my family ventured onto the Minster to take some photos by York’s iconic building. I don’t like the thought of calling myself a graduate now… I am still a student at heart! So now I have a month before I move to Paris for the year, and from there, I plan to begin studying for a Masters in History of Art so do expect more to come from my blog! I hope that everyone had a wonderful day yesterday – everyone looked so lovely, and it was sad not too …

Mondrian and his studios: Tate Liverpool

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This summer blockbuster at the Tate Liverpool is co-curated by our very own  departmental tutor and lecturer, Michael White. Having opened on 6th June until 5th October 2014, ‘Mondrian and his studios’ explores not only the significance of Piet Mondrian’s work in the development of abstract art, but also the relationship between his paintings and the space around them. The exhibition demonstrates the contrast between the artworks Mondrian created in Amsterdam, Paris and New York, as we see the development in his ideas and the impact of his different surroundings.  A life size reconstruction of Mondrian’s Paris studio allows visitors a chance to absorb themselves in Mondrian’s world.  Together with a companion exhibition, Mondrian and Colour which runs at Turner Contemporary until September 21st, the exhibition marks the 70th anniversary of Mondrian’s death. This exhibition is definitely worth a visit! Go Michael and the rest of the team!

Careers in Art History: Inspiration & Possibilities

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This Friday (Week 9, 20th June 2014), the History of Art department has organised a careers-orientated event which sees department alumni returning to speak to current students about their careers. These alumni will  offer insights into, and advice on entering, the working world. The event is a unique opportunity to hear about the career paths, personal experiences and strategic career choices of people who have studied art history.   It takes place from 1pm in the Bowland Lecture Theatre (Berrick Saul Building) on campus. Events like these are really invaluable to attend, especially as we’re all coming either to the end of our degree or thinking about the future. One of the things that I have learnt throughout the years is that sometimes it’s who you know which is so important – so go and learn something, and do some networking!   To sign up for the event go to this website: http://doodle.com/mzswt3wa57ddnvui.   If you have any questions etc, get in contact with Dr Chad Elias! (chad.elias@york.ac.uk)