Whether she's in the studio, at a convention or planning her next big career move, Freddie is never short of creativity. Find out how Freddie's journey through university level education helped reset her path from unfulfilling jobs to professional tattoo artist and aspiring art therapist.
What Freddie said
I decided to take a leap of faith and look for a course that would allow me to pursue a more creative, art-focused career. That's when I discovered the Fine Art degree at Nottingham College and decided to apply. I completed my degree in two stages, beginning with the Foundation Degree while undertaking a tattoo apprenticeship in Nottingham. My ambition was to become a tattoo artist and I'm pleased to say that I achieved that goal. I've now been working as a full-time tattoo artist for the past six years.
Freddie McGaw
More about Freddie's journey at college
"I've been drawing for as long as I can remember. Even as a young child, I was always drawing, creating things, and exploring my creativity. Naturally, I chose to study Art at GCSE and A-level. However, after leaving school, I wasn't completely sure what I wanted to do, so I spent some time moving between different jobs that weren't related to art."
"Three years after completing my Foundation Degree, I returned to Nottingham College to complete the one-year top-up course and gain my full bachelor's qualification. My experience across the three years of study was incredibly rewarding. The course enabled me to develop my Fine Art practice beyond tattooing, giving me the opportunity to experiment with different materials, techniques, and mediums."
"My tutor on the Foundation Degree was especially supportive, particularly during lockdown. He was always available with ideas, advice, and recommendations, and genuinely understood each student's individual interests and creative direction."
"Today, I work full-time as a tattoo artist, but I am also taking steps towards my next goal of studying for a Master's degree in Art Therapy. My particular area of interest is supporting young people with autism and ADHD, as it's something I feel strongly passionate about."
"Returning to education as a mature student was a very positive experience. My course included students from a wide range of age groups, which created a diverse and supportive learning environment."
"For me personally, being able to work for myself while doing something I genuinely enjoy is incredibly fulfilling. Studying at Nottingham College not only gave me the qualifications I needed to progress my career, but also provided the time, space, and support to discover what I truly wanted to do and what I enjoy most as a creative professional."
Returning to education?
Courses for 19+ students
Degree level study
University Level
Art and Design
We have extensive studio spaces, a print room, photographic dark room & studio, 3D workshops, a ceramics workshop & digital facilities.
25 Stoney Street
Within Lace Market and the creative quarter, on Stoney Street we have our grade II 25 Stoney Street campus dedicated to Art and Design courses.
