I was delighted when I discovered that, as part of the Permeate programme, I could choose myself a mentor.
I’ve never had a mentor before. It’s such a great opportunity to talk to a professional outside my immediate circle of contacts about ways of developing my career. Sometimes, talking to someone who isn’t involved with the everyday issues can help us to focus and prioritise.
On 29 June 2011, I met Karen Alexander who is a Senior Tutor in the Royal College of Art's (RCA) Curating Contemporary Art department with responsibility for the work-based pathway, Inspire. I asked Karen to be my mentor due to commonality between the Inspire and Permeate programme as well as her experience, research interests and current position at the RCA.
Naturally the relationship between a mentor and mentee varies depending on individuals and their situation, but for me what’s important in a mentor is someone I respect, admire and value both as a professional and as an individual.
The first meeting was informative, encouraging and inspiring. We talked briefly about my career to date, personal challenges and future aspirations. Karen’s explanation of the relationship between action and outcome, the importance of engaging and being proactive and the need for reflection and evaluation in order to take ownership of my learning was simply inspirational.
Since meeting Karen, I have made a conscious effort to change my responsive attitude, becoming more proactive by attending more exhibitions and related events in order to develop my confidence through networking and by keeping abreast of current practice.
I’m very excited about this learning journey and looking forward to implementing the necessary changes needed in order to develop my confidence, skills and ability as an arts professional.
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