Art Students Make a Creative Impact Across Scotland

Students from UHI Perth’s BA (Hons) Art and Contemporary Practices degree are making a meaningful difference in communities across Scotland through a series of dynamic and socially engaged placements.

From national institutions like the National Galleries of Scotland to grassroots organisations in Wishaw, Perth, and Biggar, these placements are giving students the opportunity to apply their creativity in real-world settings—while also enriching the lives of those they work with. 

“These placements are vital,” said Simon Reekie, Art and Design Lecturer at UHI Perth. “They equip students for the Creative Industries and help them build meaningful networks. They also decentralise and diversify the course, keeping it grounded in professional practice and responsive to community needs.” 

Highlights include: 

• Connor, placed at the National Galleries of Scotland, supported exhibitions and family events, using his background in childcare to lead creative sensory play sessions. “It reminded me why I love the arts—it’s about the people it brings together.” 
  
  
• In Wishaw, Aimee launched a youth art group with charity MADE4UINML2, delivering workshops in graffiti, sculpture, and zine-making. “It’s about accessible art and giving young people a voice,” she said.
  
  
• Fiona, with a background in nursing, combined art and mental health support at The Walled Garden in Perth, helping clients express themselves and build confidence. “It’s helping me cope with my own traumas by helping others with theirs.”
  
  
• Erin, placed with Creative Catalyst, used her digital art skills to co-create marketing materials and lead workshops. “It boosted my confidence massively,” she said.
  
  
• Jule, working with Culture North Lanarkshire, returned to a community art class that once supported her own mental health. “Now I get to give something back,” she said, describing moments of unity and peer support in the class.
  
  
• Beau, at Biggar and Upper Clydesdale Museum, revitalised educational resources for young visitors. “I’ve become a lot more confident in my skills regarding community engagement,” they said. 

To learn more about the BA (Hons) Art and Contemporary Practices degree at UHI Perth and how it connects students with real-world opportunities, see our course listing.