Rowan’s scholarship and knowledge are at an outstanding level for an undergraduate. Her work concerns LGBTQ+ identity, with her powerful pieces being featured in online periodical Creatures, as part of a story centred around body politics. The real measure of Rowan’s success is how she adapted to the pressures of the pandemic, seeking digital solutions to her learning. She created an online exhibition during lockdown and has since shared her skills and competencies with her fellow students. Her most recent work explores virtual reality and gaming culture within a Fine Art context. She has also self-taught herself web coding to produce immersive spaces in which to examine art and philosophical ideas.
Rowan is driven by the impact art can have on others, providing a platform to the unheard and championing stories important to her and the wider world. According to her tutor, Academic Lead for Art and Design Brendan Fletcher “her studentship is as exemplary as her academic output”. Rowan has the talent, ability and commitment to forge a very successful career as a professional artist.
Rowan says “My three years at the University of Salford have been incredible. Looking at the things I have been able to achieve during my time here and the strides I have made, I am immensely proud of what I have accomplished and the person I have become. Being nominated for this award means so much to me, and I feel really honoured to have been recognised in this way. From my very first visit to Salford, I knew I had found a place where I could really thrive. I’ve not always had a place where I felt I fit in, and the way Salford has welcomed me and helped me to be the best I can be is something I will never forget. This really is an amazing end to my experience at Salford, and I feel incredibly grateful and proud.”