Izzy Stone

Current Employer/Organisation Name

The Open University

What have you been doing since leaving Exeter, and what are you doing now?

After finishing my BA at Exeter, I moved to the Netherlands to continue my studies. I completed a two year research Masters in art history at Utrecht University. Towards the end of my Master’s program, I was accepted as the PhD candidate for the Open University and Museum of the Home CDP project titled ‘Netherlandish Networks’, which I am now in the first year of. Whilst in the Netherlands presented my research at the KVAAK symposium in the Rijksmuseum, Amsterdam, and undertook a 6 month curatorial and research intership at the historic palace museum, Paleis Het Loo. Alongside my studies, I have continued to work as a private chef for UK clients.

Why did you choose this career? And what do you enjoy most about your work?

I discovered my love for the field of art history while doing my undergraduate degree at Exeter and wanted to pursue futher study with one opportunity leading to the next. I most enjoy the process of researching and getting to work with wonderful objects. Another key aspect I enjoy most is working with people who are as passionate as you are about their topic, there is always more to learn and to discover.

Please tell us if you were a member of any societies, groups or sports clubs?

I was in the Exeter Choral Society.

What did you enjoy most about your programme and what was the biggest highlight?

I loved the process of learning about new topics and ideas, getting to understand the methodologies and history of art history as a discipline. It opened my eyes to new ways of thinking about and seeing the world we live in, not only its history but also the ways we engage with visual media today. My highlight of the programme by far was having the opportunity to go to Venice in and work at the Biennale with the British Council Fellowship Scheme.

What did you most enjoy about studying here?

I most enjoyed getting to know other students and learning so much everyday.

Why did you choose to study at Exeter?

I chose to study at Exeter because it’s reputation as a well respected University and also for it’s location in the South West.

What skills and experiences have been most useful for your career?

My degree from Exeter enabled my to continue along my academic path but also provided an excellent grounding for my future studies and work.

What advice would you give to a current student who wishes to pursue your career?

My advice would be to enage with the excellent teaching as much as possible, take opportunities that are available to you and build relationships with your professors as they have a wealth of knowledge and experience.

What are your plans for the future?

I am planning to undertake a curatorial placment during my PhD and very much look forward to that. I would very much like to work in museums and the cultural sector, not necessarily academia but adjacent to it.