I've always been interested in pursuing
a career in the arts
but for many years I was unsure where I
would fit within the industry.
After spending time abroad I realized my
passion was for the visual arts in the
gallery sector.
Applying to study at Monash was an obvious
choice being Melbourne's first
university to offer a Bachelor degree in
curatorial practice.
Hi my name is Ivy Ritchens and I'm a
third year Bachelor of Art History and
Curating student at Monash University in
Melbourne.
The BAHC degree fosters collaboration
between the curatorial students and the
practicing fine art students
which provides a great opportunity to
begin establishing a network
in preparation for a career in the
gallery. The elective-based structure of
the course also supports and encourages
curating students to experiment with
creative practices,
to complement their theoretical units. In
my first year I took a life drawing unit
and I've done this practice has been
really influential
in the way I now observe and engage with
artwork
through other studio-based electives
I've also developed a passion for
conceptual art-making practices,
sound and video art. In my second year
I was able to exhibit a body of video
work in Italy
after receiving the Arts in Prato
Scholarship.
This scholarship financially supported
my studies for one semester abroad where
I was able to collaborate with
Australian artists
living and working in Italy during the
12 weeks my peers and I developed a
public exhibition
that included a range of works from
performance to painting.
As a curatorial student, I also initiated
a series of didactic wall texts
that we exhibited in the show and
complemented a number of the work.s
All of these experiences with Monash
University have assisted in developing
my skills,
knowledge and confidence to begin
working as an independent curator.
In the past, I've curated for Melbourne's
No Vacancy Gallery
which is situated in the heart of the
CBD. I've also curated for the
established Australian artist
Geoff Todd AM whom I'm now employed by as
his agent
in promoting the auction of his archive
which spans 50 years.
I'm also currently working with a number
of emerging creatives
in developing a series of boutique
exhibitions to support the next
generation of Australian artists.
My ability to thrive in my studies is
much owed to the amazing lecturers and
tutors of Monash.
These people will be your most valuable
resource at university
their passion and knowledge for the arts
is inspiring and motivating to be a
hard-working and dedicated Monash
University student.
 
