Ian Barrington Brown

What are you doing now?

Since 2010, I have been actively exhibiting my art and working independently. In addition, I held a gallery in London through to 2015, representing and working with over 200 artists based internationally. I am currently making enquiries on a number of properties in London and Barcelona to accommodate additional facilities for artists and visitors. I am also a founder of an art collective and a Board Member of an Arts Institute in New Delhi, India.

What did you find most valuable about your course at Westminster? How did the skills you learnt during your degree help you to shape your career?

Primarily, I gained confidence in my aims and practice – both professionally and within the visual arts – helping towards an initial 10-year career in education.

What was the best thing about being a student in London?

The diversity of international backgrounds and cultures raised my social perspective to a global scale. Although born and having lived in London since birth, the University has a strong international market, which a local HE college does not offer to the same scale.

What advice would you give to someone thinking of pursuing a similar career?

Don't expect to be the next Damien Hirst or Turner Prize winner! However, there are many skills, qualities and options, like taking additional postgrad courses, which do become available through a Fine Arts course at Westminster.

Is there anything else you would like to tell us about yourself, your achievements, life experiences, what inspires you, or career that may be valuable/interesting to our prospective students or alumni?

I had the opportunity to work at Damien Hirst's London studio. I am a part-time actor/supporting film artiste. Advice: get used to presenting to groups!