Chloe Scorah is an emerging London artist who began her painting journey at City of Westminster College. You can find her on the latest series of Portrait Artist of the Year which kicked off this October on Sky Arts and NOW TV.
At CWC I studied art and design. It was amazing to get to focus on my favourite subject for two years, doing a diploma, as I didn’t know this was even an option until year 11. I was drawn to the course as I was only ever into art growing up, and the chance to focus on that purely felt perfect for me, and set me up amazingly for uni and my future as an artist.
I learnt so much about myself as an artist, and my artistic style, being given amazing facilities and materials to explore every possibility. I could spend hours painting in the art rooms with everything I needed. It was like the first time I looked forward to going to school, and was genuinely motivated to do well. I was also given the opportunity to paint students at CWC, commissioned by the college, which were kept up in the halls. It was so exciting to feel like a proper artist!
After college I went to Manchester School of Art, at MMU. This was suggested to me by my tutor Sandra who was extremely helpful and supportive throughout my time at CWC. I felt a step ahead of loads of my peers there as they had come from A levels, and I’d practically done that and a foundation all in one. I was more prepared for the routine of a university art student. Here I continued painting and discovered more about love for painting and portraiture, which began at CWC. I just graduated and completed Portrait Artist of the Year in the span of 3 months! Which has made this year both very hectic but super beneficial for my future.
Thank you! The show has been one of my favourites since I started painting, I’ve practically watched every series. I’d applied the previous 2 years, not thinking anything of it, as it’s one of the only free-entry competitions out there. It still feels like a dream getting that call in March that they loved my submission, and wanted me on the show. I had no plans to win, I just wanted to do my best and not embarrass myself haha! It was a surreal experience being filmed and watched, and the sitter choosing my painting to take home added to that. I made a lot of friends with artists of all ages, and learnt so much in just a day. I still think about the experience daily and how proud I am to have taken such a big step out of my comfort zone.
Currently I am just figuring out how to be a graduate and navigating the start of my career as an artist. I hope that when the show is out I gain some more recognition, and hopefully get started on commissions. I would love to paint everyday, and get the opportunity to share my portraits through exhibitions and shows. I think what drives me forward is how much I enjoy painting, and don’t view it as work or a chore. I find I develop my skills with every piece, and take the time as a break/ opportunity to relax.
My advice to anyone considering a career in the arts is to trust yourself, experiment and take any opportunities presented to you. Doubting yourself will only limit how far you go as an artist, and trying things that seem impossible makes such a big difference, whether they work out or not! We are so lucky to get the chance to pursue a career in something we enjoy so much.
Want to see Chloe in action? Tune in to Sky Arts on Wednesday 11 November to watch her showcase her talents!
Are you a college alumni? Tell us what you’re up to – we’d love to share your story! Email marketing@ucg.ac.uk.
“Being named a finalist for the AoC Adult Student of the Year Award is honestly one of the proudest moments of my journey so far. When I became Student Union President, I wanted to prove that student leadership could genuinely change how a college feels from the inside, more connected, more supported, better able to access opportunities. Seeing that work recognised on a national stage means everything, and it’s pushed me to keep going, not just for the role, but for what I want to build in my future career.”
“The technical knowledge and hands-on experience gained during my apprenticeship at College of North West London have been invaluable, particularly in understanding site processes, health and safety requirements and the understanding of electrical systems.”
“My favourite thing about studying here has definitely got to be the teachers. They’re really helpful, kind and in the industry, so it’s good.”
“At City of Westminster College, my experience has been the best of all the other colleges I’ve attended. The reason I like CWC is because the teachers make my journey easier with assessment and exams. I’m a Level Two Science student and I enjoy my lessons because most of them are practical, which are helpful for me. I love studying at CWC because you meet people from other countries – all over the world and from all different communities.”
“My experience at College of Northwest London, has been exciting, it has been thrilling and it has been full of opportunities, and we have the tutors that help us whenever we’re in need. We go on educational trips to get a feel for what university life is like. We have the careers advisors that help us on our path, our university path.”
“My experience studying at City of Westminster College has been amazing. It’s been so welcoming; I enjoy it very much because of the staff members we have here. They’re very approachable and I could come to them with any question, and it will be answered straight away. And if I come early for a class, I can use the Learning Resources Centre, I can use the computers, the books, just to continue all my studies outside the classroom time.”
“The facilities here are brilliant. You have range of courses you can study. My teachers in the Performing Arts department have got history in the industry, which is very useful. You get to ask them for advice and actual knowledge from the industry, and take that into your own work within the college also afterwards. ”
“The training process was seamless. I had good instructors who were very flexible, supporting people of all learning levels. On the last day after our exams, a security company came and did a presentation. We had the opportunity to have an interview afterwards. I told them about my experiences, and they said I would be a good fit. I formally applied for a role and started with the company soon after. Getting into security has opened doors for me. I hope I will continue to take steps up the career ladder.”
“Coming to study at the City of Westminster College was the best decision that I had ever made. The teachers are very accommodating – they help you learn things in a way that might be easier for you to learn. They are very supportive and I think that’s one of the best things about learning here.”
