Catching up with... Suzi Morris

When were you at Kingston and what did you study?

I left in 1984 with a first in graphics and illustration.

Why did you choose Kingston?

I wanted to do graphics and illustration and Kingston was the best university in the country at the time for the course. After seeing the work at the recent open day I attended, Kingston still seems to be the best.

Sum up your memories of your time at Kingston in three words.

Challenging, stimulating, rewarding.

What did you expect to do after graduating, and are you doing it?

I wanted to become an art director in film, travel and bring art to others. I was lucky to do both, but the best part is still to come.

Next steps?

After teaching art to the under privileged around the world, I went into film. I recently gave up working as an art director at Fact Not Fiction Films. My last film was the epic documentary drama and Academy Award contender, Shady Lady. The name always triggers a response in people's face! It's not that type of shady lady, it's about the longest bombing mission in history of its time in WW2.

Now I have gone back to university to undertake an MA in Painting to progress my practice. It's the hardest course I have ever done but so rewarding.

What's your greatest achievement?

Receiving my first-class degree from Prince Charles at the National Council for Academic Awards and teaching a young child in India how to draw her sister.

Next step?

Complete my masters in painting and come and do my PhD at Kingston?

What advice would you give your 18-year-old?

Ask yourself where you want to be in 20 years. Always follow your dreams, don't let anyone stop you doing what your heart and beliefs tell you is right for you.

What last made you laugh?

Watching a documentary about space and the big bang with friends, to hear someone ask if it was all archive footage. Classic moment.

What's your ideal weekend?

Waking up somewhere warm with my partner and no mobile phone or laptop!

You're going to be stranded on a desert island:

What would be your luxury?

Laura Mercier tinted moisturizer and a private jet for other such essentials!

What would be your food of choice?

Canadian scallops and a vintage bottle of Dom Pérignon washed up on the beach. If only!

And what would be your film?

The Shawshank Redemption (1994) or The Right Stuff (1983)

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