Tessa Lyons

Tessa Lyons, a 2011 Illustration graduate, was highly commended in the Nagoya University of Arts prize category during her Graduate Show.

Can you explain your background, what was your route to joining the course?

I initially joined the Illustration BA(Hons) course in 2006 and after the first year I took a couple of years out before returning to finish my degree

Did you always plan to study at higher education level?

It was a natural progression from college.

Why did you decide to study at Brighton?

I enjoy the city: it's not too big but it has a good atmosphere and it's by the sea which is nice.

What was the best thing about studying at Brighton?

I liked using the bookbinding and printmaking facilities.

Has the course met your expectations?

Initially it didn't but it got a lot better towards the end, although that definitely had a lot to do with myself rather than the course.

What was the highlight of the course?

Working towards the final show and seeing it all come together. 

What would you say to individuals considering this course?

Push your work as much as possible for yourself to see what you can do.

What has been your greatest challenge?

Figuring out the logistics of working on such a big scale; framing, moving and hanging. 

What do you hope to do now that you've graduated?

Travel more and make more big drawings.