For one Fine Art student at Liverpool Hope University, choosing a creative career path was not always the obvious option.
Although Evelyn Baker excelled in maths and physics at school, art had always been a passion. It was only after starting university that she truly began to believe a career as a professional artist was possible.
“I realised this was my true passion,” Evelyn explained. “I wanted to keep pushing myself to see if I could become a successful artist, exhibiting work and selling pieces professionally. I don’t think I truly believed that could happen until I came to university.”
Evelyn credits much of that confidence to the support received from tutors, technicians and staff throughout her time at Liverpool Hope.
“The support from the tutors, technicians and the University itself really gave me the confidence to believe I could grow as an artist. The opportunities I’ve gained here have been incredible.”
Discovering a Passion for Ceramics
Although Evelyn began the course focused primarily on painting, her direction changed after being introduced to ceramics by Hope technician Roozbeh, who encouraged the practice.
“I’d never worked with ceramics before,” she said. “But one of the technicians, Roozbeh, really encouraged me and made me realise I had a talent for it. It linked perfectly with my practice and the themes I was exploring around spirituality and meditation.”
From that point onward, ceramics became central to her creative work. Through experimenting with new materials, techniques and processes, she developed a distinctive sculptural style that has since earned national recognition.
“My three years on the degree really helped me master my ceramic skills, and now those works are winning awards, which still feels unbelievable.”
Award-Winning Success
One of the defining moments of Evelyn’s university experience came during the annual Degree Show, an exhibition showcasing student work to friends, family, industry professionals and the public.
“It was always something I was working towards from first year. By third year I knew exactly what I wanted my sculptures and paintings to look like. With support from Tony, one of the tutors, I found exactly the direction I wanted for my paintings. I created six large figurative works for the Degree Show which are still influencing my practice today.”
From the degree show, Evelyn won the award of emerging artists, with the opportunity to exhibit her work in London, take up a residency at the Bridewell Studios and an Artist Fellowship with Artist Future Funds. It was during these residencies that Evelyn applied for the Zari Art Prize, a yearly exhibition at Zari Gallery, where her sculpture 'The Ent' won The Best In Show Award.
“Hearing my name read out as the winner was surreal,” she said. “Having my sculptures exhibited in London in such an important gallery was a real turning point for me. It made me feel like all the hard work was paying off. I would like to extend a thank you to Georgina, owner of Zari Gallery, for the opportunity.”
The experience also opened new professional opportunities, helping Evelyn connect with galleries, artists and collectors while building confidence in their work.
Life as an Emerging Artist
“There’s definitely a business side to being an artist that you have to learn,” Evelyn explained. “You’re managing social media, exhibitions, networking, finances and trying to develop your work all at the same time.”
Despite the challenges, they describe the experience as exciting and rewarding, particularly within Liverpool’s creative community.
“The art scene in Liverpool is incredibly supportive. It feels very community-based, artists support each other, galleries are welcoming, and there are always opportunities to meet people and collaborate.”
Reflecting on her time at Liverpool Hope, the Evelyn says the close-knit nature of the University has played a major role in her success.
“It really feels like a community here. Even after graduating, the tutors still support you, share opportunities and encourage your work. That support has been invaluable.”
She also praised the opportunities available to Fine Art students, including studio access, technical workshops, gallery visits and industry connections.
“The technicians and tutors are always there to help you experiment, try new things and push yourself creatively. A lot of the opportunities I’ve had came from getting involved, saying yes to things and making the most of everything the course offered.”
Advice for Future Art Students
For anyone considering studying Fine Art or another creative discipline, their advice is simple. “Completely go for it. Explore every material and every opportunity you can. I never imagined ceramics would become such a huge part of my practice, but trying something new completely changed my career path.
“The more you put into the experience, the more you get out of it. Liverpool Hope gave me opportunities I never thought possible from exhibitions and awards to professional opportunities and lifelong connections.”
Find out more: www.evelynbaker.art