Angela Gräfin von Wallwitz (current student on the MA Decorative Arts programme)
“For over 30 years I worked as a specialist in European Ceramics at Sotheby’s and as a dealer in London and Munich but had never been to university. I heard about the Wallace/University of Buckingham MA course for Decorative Arts and Heritage Management by accident and was delighted to be given the opportunity to widen my horizon. The standard of teaching is unusually high due to the wide and deep knowledge of the in-house tutors. All external lecturers are the best experts in their field whose work and career I had followed throughout my working life. The coursework is dense and demanding but the support is extraordinary. Nobody is left behind and each one in our year rose to unexpected levels of academia and knowledge.
Jobs in the art world are very scarce indeed. The unique combination of high academic standards and the training to look, analyse and date works of art prepares better for a working life than any other I know. This course will become famous for the Decorative Arts.”
Matthew Hirst, Head of Arts and Historic Collections, Chatsworth:
“I can think of no better foundation for my career than the MA in Historic Interiors and Decorative Arts. I constantly call upon the in-depth knowledge I gained during my studies, giving me the confidence to develop areas of specialism relevant to the two great houses I have subsequently worked in. The thorough teaching, and the vast array of experts who were called upon for lectures and visits make this course second to none.”
Colette Anthon, Creative Director, NH Design:
“Completing the MA in Decorative Arts at the University of Buckingham and the Wallace Collection was an important addition to the repertoire of inspiration in my work as an interior designer. Despite the fact that I was well established in my career, I have utilized the knowledge acquired during this stimulating year profusely in my work … the contacts gained have become not only friends, but part of my network of associates whose knowledge and expertise I can draw upon when designing and restoring houses … I can absolutely say that what I gained from the course was of fundamental importance in securing my position as Creative Director of NH Design.”
Philip Warner, Property Manager, National Trust, Claydon House:
“The MA in Decorative Arts at Buckingham has been an essential element to my successful career in the National Trust. Understanding the language of ornament and decoration adds tremendous value and meaning to historic house visiting. Buckingham’s extensive programme of study visits gave me access to some of the finest interiors in England. The contacts with experts in the heritage sector have been extremely useful for career development and continued learning in this remarkable field.
Extremely knowledgeable and friendly teaching staff made the course a challenging yet highly rewarding experience, one I would highly recommend to all seeking a career in the Arts world.”
See also:
- MA in Decorative Arts and Historic Interiors
- Country house study week
- Study week in Paris
- Academic staff
- News
For enquiries or further information about the programme, please contact Linda Waterman (tel. +44 (0)1280 820120, email humanities@buckingham.ac.uk).
