Elly Iimura

My name is Elly Iimura, alumni of 2007, St Joseph’s College. Back in the day, I came to England to do my A-levels in 2005. I always had a passion in Art but I didn't know Art could be so broad and creative until I joined Mrs Harvey’s class. I studied Art at GCSE in Hong Kong but unfortunately the syllabus never inspired my creativity. St Joseph’s College opened my eyes, encouraging me to express my emotions and show through visual forms what I was feeling.

At first I took Economics, Business and Art for my AS, but after months of studying it gave me a clear direction of what I wanted to do in the future and I felt like I finally found myself and my passion. I took a big risk and decided to drop Economics and Business after AS. I took A2 Art, AS Photography and A2 Photography in one year although it was not advised but I took the risk and followed my heart. I still remember being inspired and being pushed to do my best. M art teacher, Mrs Harvey always believed in me and gave me guidance. I told her once that I was thinking about working in Sotheby’s in the future and instantly she took us on a day trip to London to Sotheby’s open day. Her passion and hope gave me the direction in what I wanted to do.

I still remember when we had to do our UCAS application, I was determined to get into Central Saint Martins, I remember Mrs Harvey was shocked when she found out that I only applied to one university with no other backup plan. Instead of talking me out of the idea, she listened to my stubbornness telling her that this is the only university I wanted to get into, she gave me support and pushed me to build my portfolio to the best.

I got into Central Saint Martins and decided to continue my studies in Cordwainer’s Accessories at London College of Fashion. Throughout my time in university although I was doing Handbag Designs, I have always implemented art in my work. My final year project was based on Cubism.

After university I have decided to go back to Hong Kong due to family reasons and also to stay closer to my family. Hong Kong is not known for its fashion and design and the industry was very small. I was struggling and thinking for a long time of what is it exactly I wanted to do and what I can do to give back to others and share my experiences. I decided to get into education and opened my own Education Centre. I became an art teacher and also managing the centre at the same time. I have taught many of my students the skills I’ve gained and life experiences I’ve learnt throughout my time in St Joseph and after. I have helped my students get into the university of their choice by helping them build their portfolio like how Mrs Harvey once did. Thinking back I am glad and thankful I got to experience my time especially in Art and Photography in St Joseph’s College. The determination I saw in Mrs Harvey truly moulded me into the person I am now. Due to the political issue and Covid-19, I have decided to close down my company after 6 years. When I told Mrs Harvey about my passion to become a curator many years ago, I still hold on to this passion. Currently I am planning to move to Germany and work up to this once passion of mine and see where that may lead me.

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