If you want a vibrant future that’s only limit is your imagination, a creative arts degree might be for you.
But what is it really like studying creative arts, and what kind of careers can it open up? To find out, we spoke to Dhin Luanbaipoon.
Originally from Bangkok, Dhin recently completed a Diploma in Creative Industries through Flinders University Academy and is now pursuing a Bachelor of Creative Industries in Film and Television at Flinders University. His passion for the arts and the impact it has on our lives makes him the perfect person to take us on a tour of this unique career path.
What are the creative arts?
Creative arts, sometimes known as creative industries, is a broad field. It encompasses a wide range of disciplines, including visual art, craft, photography, design, music, drama, fashion, writing, communication and more.
All types of arts play an important role in society, which Dhin says goes beyond simple entertainment. He adds that art can be political or informative and can even have the power to change minds.
“It can be the way to shape society,” he shares.
Finding the right course for you
When you’re searching for your ideal creative arts course, it’s important to check out your options.
Some universities have broader course offerings than others. You’ll also want to look for a degree that aligns with your artistic passion.
Before moving to Adelaide, Dhin was studying communication in Thailand. As a “film person”, he wanted to find a course that better suited his interests and career goals.
He says he did some research to find out which courses were available, but once he visited Flinders, his mind was made up. The Academy is also the only institution in South Australia offering a direct pathway to his dream degree at Flinders University.
What is it like studying creative arts?
Depending on your subject, creative art studies can differ quite a lot from other programs, like business or science.
Many arts are applied, which means learning sometimes takes place in studios or special labs rather than in lecture halls.
Dhin shares that his course gives him the chance to get hands-on in the studio with specialised industry technology, like cameras and lighting equipment, which students can use to complete projects and assignments.
Studying arts also means getting the chance to meet lots of other creative people. Dhin says his peers are really friendly, and they often get together after class to study or hang out.
His favourite subject so far has been The Hollywood Industry.
“We take a look at the history of Hollywood since the beginning, maybe like 1920, until the new Hollywood era,” Dhin explains.
Each week, they take on a new era and enjoy a screening of a pivotal film from the time.
“For example, if we’re talking about the period of Jaws or Batman, that week the teacher is going to screen us the movie, and then we have a discussion after that.”
What is the career outlook like?
When it comes to finding work after graduation, opportunities abound! According to the Australian Government’s Jobs and Skills Australia, there are lots of creative roles anticipating huge employment growth in the coming years, including artistic directors, media producers and presenters and visual arts and crafts professionals.
Dhin says Australia is a great place to start your creative career. In Thailand, he shares, the industry is quite small, while Australia has international connections and opportunities.
“In Australia, when you’re good at something, people around the world can see your work,” he adds.
While some might be concerned about how the arts industry will change over the coming years, particularly due to new technologies like AI, Dhin says he isn’t worried at all. He points to the fact that the arts industry has always adapted to new tech quickly, using it to set a new standard for the generation to come.
“For example, in the Avatar movie,” he explains, ”the way James Cameron showed visual effects changed the world, and that set the new standard, so after Avatar, CGI is much better.”
Advice for future students
Dhin says studying somewhere like Flinders, which has experienced teachers, excellent facilities and a great student body, is helping him get on the right track for graduation. At the Academy, Dhin gained the foundational knowledge and skills to prepare him for success in his bachelor degree.
Once he finishes his studies, he wants to be a film or music video director and eventually hopes to own his own production company.
When it comes to advice for others interested in studying creative arts, Dhin says to just be yourself.
He also suggests being brave about sharing your creativity and ideas with peers, friends and others — after all, that’s what university is for.
Finally, he adds, don’t forget to enjoy yourself!
“Come to uni to have fun, to adapt your creativity and enjoy your time,” Dhin advises.
Ready to begin your pathway to Flinders University? like Dhin With Flinders University Academy courses taught across Flinders campuses helping international students gain direct entry to a destination degree, you’re on your way to career success.
