Lorrae Riddell Charlesworth
Art, Design & Photography
HND Art & Design
“I found the lecturers to be most supportive and knowledgeable. I enjoyed listening to their own experiences, and those of visiting art tutors too.”
After retiring at 60, Lorrae has finally been able to pursue her lifelong dream of studying art and design.
Lorrae Riddell Charlesworth (61) is originally from Moray. She previously studied art when she was in sixth year at secondary school, with one of her designs being used for a local pharmacy.
She said, “I am very proud that my design has stood the test of time and is still in place for the business 45 years on!”
Although Lorrae was accepted into Aberdeen College, she had to decline her place as she was moving to Cambridgeshire that year. She returned to Scotland in 1997 and went on to build a busy and varied career while raising a family with her partner.
Throughout the years, her passion for art never faded and, after retiring in 2024, she felt it was time to return to education.
She said, “I was considering Open University but decided on College as I have always found Fraserburgh to be a friendly place.”
Studying art & design
Lorrae completed HNC Art & Design at Fraserburgh Campus before progressing to the HND the following year. She thrived in the creative College environment and found the hands-on elements of her studies particularly rewarding.
She said, “I really enjoyed the visual learning tutorials in my first year. My personal highlight was arriving at College and going into the drying room to see how the colours and designs had turned out once my piece had dried.
“I also thoroughly enjoyed the photo shoots and research involved in my courses.”
Lorrae valued the opportunity to connect with like-minded students.
She said, “Another highlight was making friends with others that shared my passion. I can only thank them for the inspiration and support that they have shown me.
“I have created friendships I now have for life.”
Support at NESCol
Throughout her time at College, Lorrae benefited from the support and expertise of staff, who played an important role in helping her succeed.
She said, “I found the lecturers to be most supportive and knowledgeable. I enjoyed listening to their own experiences, and those of visiting art tutors too.
“I certainly would not have managed my courses had it not been for the support and facilities of the College Library; the staff were so very helpful.”
Next steps
Lorrae hopes to continue exploring her love of art after graduation.
She explained, “I would very much like to display my work in a gallery or find a part-time job and continue my love of painting seascapes.
“In the future, I’d love to have my own gallery and an arts and crafts workshop. I am also thinking about running art therapy classes for people who need a bit of help with their own projects.”
Advice for students
Lorrae’s story proves that it’s never too late to learn and achieve goals you’ve had since childhood. She hopes her experience will inspire others to consider a return to education after retirement.
“I would highly recommend studying at NESCol. It really did not matter to me about my age – age is immaterial and I feel if you are willing to learn that is the most important part.
“If you’re thinking about going to College, then do it! I would say to anyone thinking about returning to education to not leave it as long as I did.
“I am so pleased I finally got the opportunity to do these art and design courses. I think I would have always wondered if I could complete them. Receiving an ‘A’ pass on my final graded unit of my HND was the pinnacle for me!
“Further education has given me so much confidence in myself.”
Study art & design at NESCol
NESCol’s studios are a hub of creativity and imagination. Our experienced tutors will support you with the tools and techniques to develop your artistic style and build a portfolio for further study or a creative career.