Jack Gentry is our 2021/22 recipient of The Norman Sayle Award for Visual Art and Literature and is attending Cardiff Metropolitan University for a BA (Hons) degree in Product Design. We caught up with Jack after his first semester to tell us more about what it's been like.

Q. What have you been working on in your studies so far?

In my first semester I have been designing kitchen utensils which can be used by everyone. I then went on to creating a prototype model of my designs. After 6 weeks designing and manufacturing, I presented my work to my team of lecturers and my fellow students.

Q. What kinds of challenges have you faced since studying as a student living in the UK and how have you overcome them?

Going to university I was worried about living in halls and making friends. Moving into halls was the right decision as I am in a flat with 8 people on different art courses. We all get along and share ideas.

Cardiff Met is on a split campus so getting to grips with trains and buses to and from campuses and my halls was a bit overwhelming at first but after 2 weeks I had mastered timetables.

Q. What has been a particular highlight of the last semester?

A highlight of my last semester has been developing my drawing skills and gaining knowledge from my lecturers.

Q. How has the Isle of Man Arts Council Student Award helped you?

For this degree course there is a huge IT requirement which I never foreseen when applying for it. The Norman Sayle award has enabled me to purchase my laptop and all the software needed for the design course.

I have used the award to invest in lots of design equipment such as technical drawing markers.

Q. What’s next for you?

In my second semester I will be designing speakers with influences from previous designs and eras. This project focuses on computer aided design using a huge range of design software.

Q. Where can we stay up to date?

I have no social media platforms at the minute. My design exhibition isn’t until next year.