Photography grad heads to Paris through articulation agreement
There’s inspiration everywhere for photographer Gabrielle Gallant as she spends a semester abroad in Paris. The Photography grad is in her second year of an Articulation Agreement with NSCAD University, which will allow her to complete a Bachelor of Fine Arts (Major in Photography) in two years, as opposed to four.
"My sister filled me in on the 2+2 agreement between NSCC and NSCAD when it was first announced," says Gabrielle. "If earning a degree in only two more years wasn't great enough, what really persuaded me to make the leap was the opportunity to complete a semester abroad at one of a long list of institutions around the world."
Gabrielle says the blend of NSCC’s hands-on teaching style and NSCAD’s theoretical style was the perfect approach for her. "NSCC taught me the technical skills needed to make it as a commercial photographer — everything from lighting to how to write a business plan. NSCAD's courses are more conceptual."
For Gabrielle, the mixture of the two educational styles strengthened her abilities as both a photographer and artist. "I find myself thinking in a completely different way than my peers, and asking more questions about others’ artwork as well as my own."
Au Paris
Studying under the internationally-acclaimed artist, Patrick Tosani, at École nationale supérieure des Beaux-Arts in Paris, Gabrielle is once again learning a new educational style. "In Europe, students have to go through an interview process with their professors who will make a decision on whether or not they will take you on as a student. I'm very grateful for this incredible opportunity."
In addition to advanced French-language classes, Gabrielle is also drawing on her first NSCC diploma, Applied Media & Communication Arts, and practicing other creative arts such as screen printing and digital media. "I knew that I wanted to work in a creative field when I chose NSCC. I was just unsure which one. My first diploma program allowed me to explore different media arts such as graphic design, photography and illustration to get a better idea of what I wanted to pursue — ultimately, it was photography."
As Gabrielle looks to the end of her term abroad, she is confident that her educational path has given her insight, opportunities and connections that will continue to set her apart in the creative industry.
"I believe this was a great path for me because I'm getting the best of both worlds," says Gabrielle. "Technical and conceptual training, and the ability to travel, explore and continue learning. It’s incredible."