London Art College Success Stories - Sharon Davies

I had enjoyed painting and drawing in the past and felt I needed to learn some new skills and techniques, whilst building a sense of personal achievement.

After seeing Melanie Philips’s website and her amazing work through the London Art College, I decided to enrol on the Pet Portraiture Diploma course, to prove to myself that I could achieve something and to give me some confidence and improve my artistic ability / skills.

As the course progressed the work became more of a challenge as I became increasingly ill.

My determination to complete the course helped keep me going, not allowing my illness to get the better of me and cause me to give up. I received lots of help and support from my tutor Melanie Phillips and members of her amazing website. Thank you all!! I couldn't have done it without you!

Towards the end of the course I went through a very rocky patch and my illness got a lot worse. I really struggled to put the final pieces together. The help and support I received from Melanie along with staff from Harrogate Mind/ the Acorn Centre, enabled me to complete the course.

Before I knew it, my diploma with distinctions came through the post. I think I am still in shock; as it still hasn't really sunk in. I was even more shocked that Melanie wanted to put me up for student of the year. I am extremely honored that my work has been recognized in this way. Many thanks to all and by the way, I am still in shock!