Brought up locally in Newham, Amber came across Rosetta Arts at 16 and joined our Young Newham Artists programme, which involved learning about the art business and History of Art and being commissioned. She went on to study Fine Art at UEL and currently works as Community Engagement Officer at the British Library.
Amber Perrier speaks about her long journey with Rosetta and how she believes it changes lives.
What’s valuable about Rosetta Arts to you?
“I think what’s valuable about Rosetta is that you meet many different people, whether its artists, teachers, funders or anyone from the public that’s interested in your work.
There’s so many opportunities here. It doesn’t matter who you are, where you’re from and what age.
“You also get advice from them on how they create their own workshops. They have a Monthly Munch event when everyone gets together from different areas of Newham to get to know students in Rosetta Arts.
“And also – my painting is placed in the Rosetta Arts reception, so I still feel like a part of it!
“I highly recommend Rosetta as there’s so much creativity in Newham and east london.”
How did Rosetta Arts impact your life?
“I would say it has improved my understanding of art. I’ve been drawing since I was a child – that was my brain: drawing for fun and not thinking anything of it.
“Coming to Rosetta allowed me to understand the art world: so how to sell your artwork, how to put up your artwork, and different forms of art. So for example, I do a lot of drawing and watercolour. There are also further techniques such as printing, monoprinting and acrylic/ oil paints. And speaking in critical terms, so going to galleries, getting together and saying how we feel about the work. Does it inspire us? And learning about the artists as well and interpreting our own work with that artist.
“So an example would be: we went to the Whitechapel Gallery many years ago and the exhibition was on John Stezaker, and we did two different collages using clippings of magazines and newspapers. We were so interested in seeing different forms of faces and the connection between a man and a woman and different object, and it was really fascinating: you could interpret the work and it expands your creativity.”
How does Rosetta Arts change lives?
“I think Rosetta Arts changes people’s lives by expressing their talent and being inspired by the artwork around them, whether it’s in galleries, museums or even their colleagues.
“There’s so many opportunities here. It doesn’t matter who you are, where you’re from and what age, you can do whatever want at Rosetta.
“It’s always welcoming with open arms to express your talents and encourage you to push further than. And also it’s an amazing place to visit and network with different people.”
Since this interview, we are delighted that Amber has joined our Board as a Young Trustee.
