We are excited to announce that one of our impressive BA (hons) Art & Design alumni Hajnal has had her work accepted to the RWA Annual Open! We spoke to Hajnal about this achievement, and what it meant to her.
Hajnal’s submitted art is a boat-shaped sculpture. This piece reflects her connection to nature and her belief in the Wabi Sabi philosophy, which finds beauty in imperfection. The boat holds deep personal meaning for Hajnal: “Boats are elegant, strong, flexible, and with their help, we can overcome obstacles, reaching faraway places, fighting against the storms.” After the loss of her mother three years ago, boats became a symbol of healing, transformation, and resilience. “My boats are pure celebrations of the successful transformation of my inner feelings,” she explains.
Hajnal’s work emphasises sustainability, using contemporary basketry, ancestral papermaking techniques, and a combination of natural and waste-based materials. “I like sustainable solutions, like transforming recycled papers into papier-mâché,” she says, noting that this is her first willow-based sculpture, a shift from the clay and metal boats she previously created.
When she found out her work was accepted, Hajnal was elated: “I was over the Moon. I was dancing, that’s what I do when I have good news.” For her, this acceptance is both a personal and professional milestone. “It’s special feedback from a highly respected jury,” she reflects, adding that it motivates her to keep growing and building her reputation.
Hajnal credits UCW’s BA (hons) Art & Design Programme with helping her transition from amateur to professional artist. “The lecturers and technicians gave me all the tools and support needed to grow,” she says, emphasising how the programme helped unlock her potential.
Having her work displayed in the prestigious RWA exhibition is a dream come true. “I made a wish to be here three years ago when we visited with UCW. I’ve been working so hard for this dream to be fulfilled.” Now, her story is an inspiration for others to take courage and pursue their own artistic dreams. To find more of Hajnal’s art, you can follow her on Instagram or Facebook at @hajnalveghart
Inspired by Hajnal’s success? Click here to find out more about BA (hons) Art & Design!
