Eastleigh College Art students were delighted to welcome renowned artist and stylist, Jennifer Anyan, as the first of a series of guest speakers as part of the College's Arts Seminar Programme.

BTEC Pre-Degree Foundation Diploma in Art, Design and Media Level 3 students were given an inspiring insight into the fashion world, including learning about Jennifer's work, which explores the construction of image and notions of the gaze.

Jennifer, also a principal lecturer at Southampton Solent University and a regular blogger, discussed the many fascinating areas of the art and fashion industries, such as the importance of strong concepts, the role of the stylist and the various specialist areas that are involved in the overall completion of projects to name but a few.

Jennifer talked to students about her show Embodied Memories, which opens at the John Hansard Gallery in Southampton in January, before discussing individual portfolios during one-to-one sessions with students.

Jennifer said:

"My focus today was about the journey from their time at college to maybe in ten years time when they will be starting careers in the creative fields. I talked about how practices and disciplines can merge, and how they need to forge a unique path through hard work, passion and all available opportunities. Also I wanted them to understand that although it's overwhelming at the point they are at now, if they keep taking opportunities and being interested then there is a point when things come together."

Student Chloe Atkins had the opportunity to go through her portfolio with Jennifer and said:

"Having Jennifer here today has inspired me as it's made me think about how broad the industry is. I am now applying for university and listening to Jennifer has given me a boost and made me think about my future career."

Course Manager, Dr. Sebastiane Hegarty, said:

"We are so pleased that Jennifer Anyan agreed to be the first visiting artist for this year's Artist Seminar Programme. It is vital that these students engage with practicing artists & designers and have the opportunity to discuss their own work, one-to-one, with artists from all disciplines."

For more information on the BTEC Pre-Degree Foundation Diploma in Art, Design and Media Level 3 full-time course call 023 8091 1299.