FIVE final year BA Visual Arts Bradford College students presented their 'coup' themed artwork at a recent exhibition.

The title suggests a gaining of power and the attainment of something difficult. Not only does it reflect the struggle to create in lockdown, but it also refers to the students’ desires to change current attitudes and laws in England.

Coup displays an affecting collection of artworks, all addressing a spectrum of issues in today’s world.

Hannah Ali gives an intimate glimpse into the difficulties of body dysmorphia, whilst Kennedy Drake responds to hostile architecture, an unforgiving feature which is frequently seen throughout Bradford and other cities.

Kay Lizzie’s artwork encompasses the heart-rending experience of infertility, and Martha Madden’s work navigates the turmoil of terminal illness, opening a discussion around the legalisation of euthanasia. Beth Menzies addresses the often-disregarded problem of domestic abuse towards men.

With each student’s approach is a poignant and important intention – to raise awareness and open a conversation, in the hopes of contributing towards a bigger picture to create change.

The exhibition was hosted at the Lister Building in the Dye House Gallery at Bradford School of Art and ran from July 2-12.

Martha said: "Each student has poured a part of their soul into these pieces of artwork. The passion for their topics radiates from the work through the intricacy and attention to detail."