"There were some extremely good teachers there that were great artists really in their own right. It was actually very hard to concentrate on getting down to going any work being an art student especially when it's a flighty thing at best"

Graham Coxon reflects on his experience as an art student, remembering the profound influence of the teachers who guided him. His admiration for these educators is clear, he considers them not just instructors, but artists of significant talent. This recognition sets the stage for the environment he describes: one filled with creativity and high standards, where inspiration was readily available for anyone attentive enough to notice. The teachers’ own pursuits and artistic achievements contributed to the rich, stimulating atmosphere of the institution, adding a layer of credibility and aspiration for the students.

However, Coxon reveals a contrasting struggle within this promising environment. The abundance of inspiration comes with its own complications, the actual discipline of focusing on one’s own work becomes a formidable challenge. Creative spaces, while invigorating, can also be overwhelming. The presence of so many talented individuals, including those meant to be mentors, creates a pressure that can distract or intimidate rather than motivate. Coxon acknowledges the inherent elusiveness of motivation and discipline, describing art as a “flighty thing at best.” This phrase underlines the difficulty of pinning down the muse or channeling creative impulses consistently. Artistry, in his view, is not only about talent but also about mastering the fluctuations of inspiration and concentration.

His reflection also touches on the broader student experience: the temptation to become absorbed in the vibrant energy of an artistic community, to the detriment of personal productivity. The paradox of being surrounded by greatness is that it can cause self-doubt or distraction, and Coxon’s candor about finding it hard to “get down to going any work” will resonate with anyone who has struggled with the dichotomy between possibility and practical accomplishment. The creative process, he suggests, is shaped as much by the environment and the people within it as by the individual’s inner drive to create.