Something you will quickly learn about St Andrews is that it truly lives up to its nickname ‘The Bubble’ because it can oftentimes feel constraining due to its size and distance from other more metropolitan areas. However, I have found that the arts scene here can alleviate those feelings in an instant – you just need to know what to look for and where to go. Lucky for you, I have compounded a list of such opportunities. This shortlist will hopefully inspire you to investigate and discover art in a way that makes this small town feel a little less so.
- Societies
Societies in St Andrews are vast, diverse, and multifarious; providing you with an outlet to express yourself outside of the classroom. A good place to start your hunt for the society that ticks your boxes is the Union’s website. Using the website’s built-in filters to view affiliated arts, media, and music societies, you will quickly find that there are dozens of opportunities to act, write, sing, and express yourself once you know where to look! The key is to get involved and see what experiences come your way. Facebook is where most societies sign-post openings on committees, so head there if you want to take more of a hands-on approach in the club’s leadership.
- Student-Run Journals
Through student-run journals, students are able to submit their work – whether that be photos, videos, or articles – to publications of all kinds. Fortunately, there are dozens of journals on campus that cover nearly all topics. Some are more academically focused, where students can research more ‘hard news’ or political subjects, while others place a heavier emphasis on the more informal/creative side. Needless to say, if you are passionate about something, you will find a way to write about it and share it with the world! There’s HerCampus (which you’ve already found), St Andrews Law Review, or Calliope Arts Journal – and these are just the first few journals that appeared on my Facebook page this morning, which shows just how accessible these publications are to the average St Andrews student!
- The Byre Theatre
The Byre Theatre has pretty much everything you could want when it comes to the Arts. Because it’s so tucked away, some people don’t know where The Byre is, or what exactly goes on there. Don’t be one of those people! From live productions and movie screenings to gallery installations, recorded plays, and operas, The Byre really does have everything. Also, the Byre Theatre often hosts student events and festivals, in addition to online-only events that you can enjoy from the comfort of your room (and some are free!).
- Museums
You don’t need to travel to Dundee, Glasgow, or Edinburgh to get lost in Art – St Andrews has more than a few notable museum spaces. For starters, there are University-run spots like the Wardlaw Museum, which has four galleries covering a variety of topics, and the Bell Pettigrew, which focuses on the natural sciences. However, more hidden gems include the St Andrews Museum, as well as the St Andrews Heritage Museum and Garden, which lets you learn more about the town of St Andrews and its fascinating history.
- Galleries
On nearly every main street in town there is a gallery or two to discover. Where some focus on paintings, others prefer photography, but the common denominator is that they all allow students to experience the art for free. Think of these galleries as a space to learn about local artists and hear about their work (and perhaps be inspired to create your own). Wander around and see what catches your eye!
- Events at the Union
The Union will also host a variety of events during this coming semester, so keep an eye out on the Union Calendar for an event that may interest you! In some cases, students will have the ability to promote their work and practice their craft. Societies also host events that you can participate in or watch. Whether you want to dance, speak, or learn how to use equipment of any kind, keep the Union in mind.
- Festivals
Throughout the academic year, different festivals come to St Andrews and bring further opportunities to delve into the arts. Some festivals let students volunteer to get to know performers and work behind the scenes to learn how running a festival really works. Just a few examples are Stanza Poetry Festival, Fife Jazz Festival, and The Green Film Festival.
No matter your interest or how you want to celebrate the Arts, St Andrews has spaces and places for you to do that!