Yuqi wanted to get a better understanding of the challenges he experienced while working in the arts sector. On the Arts and Cultural Leadership master’s programme, he’s gaining invaluable insights to take into his future career.
I worked for a non-profit organisation in Shanghai that funded programmes to foster upcoming artists and art projects. During that time I felt something was wrong in the relationship between the organisation, the staff, the artists it was supporting, and the community.
I was driven by a desire to understand the theoretical roots of these issues and discover a more ethical leadership framework, so that I could alleviate these problems in the future.
The MA matched my ambitions
The Arts and Cultural Leadership programme was the perfect match with my career aspirations, blending academic rigour and practical application. Also the University of Southampton has a prestigious reputation as a member of the Russell Group and consistent high rankings.
Putting my own experiences in context
The modules have helped me understand more about my own experience of work in the cultural sector and how to improve things.
For example, we discussed the concept of ‘love’ in terms of leadership, and how to meet the real needs of artists and communities, rather than just an organisation’s economic imperatives. I also learned more about the ‘passion trap’, where a company or leader will exploit people’s passion for their own benefit or profit.
I really appreciate being able to learn about concepts that I can implement when I go back into the arts sector.
It’s a supportive community
I’m enjoying the diverse and inclusive learning environment. The lecturers are incredibly supportive and encourage critical thinking, broadening my perspective through engaging seminars and collaborative projects.
The University’s international student support services, and my tutors, have helped me settle into life in the UK. Being in student accommodation was a great way to meet new people and feel part of the community from day one.
I’m based at Winchester School of Art and there are lots of activities on campus – for example I enjoy playing badminton with my friends here – and it’s easy to get to the University’s campus at Southampton for events there.
My aim is to advocate for change
With my postgraduate qualification I can aim for a more senior career position when I return to China. I would like to become an arts project manager, and advocate for systemic change in the cultural sector, focusing on closing the gap between social impact and staff wellbeing.
My degree will have equipped me with the legal frameworks, ethical tools, and the ‘ethical leader’ mindset necessary to ensure that people working in the arts are truly protected.