South Lanarkshire Council

The third year pupils from across South Lanarkshire who went along to Hamilton Town House had the opportunity to hear from one of Hamilton's very own artists - Turner Prize winner Martin Boyce.

Martin discussed his own school career at Holy Cross High School in Hamilton and remembered his time there fondly. He said: "My art teacher took the time to realise that I was interested in art but was struggling to connect with it. She introduced me to pop art and suddenly I got it and I haven't looked back.

"I am delighted to be able to discuss my experiences with young students as my art career didn't always run smoothly. I missed out on an art prize at school and also didn't get into art school at my first application.

"I am proof positive that if you believe in yourself and have a dream then you can overcome all obstacles to get there if you are focussed enough.

"I firmly believe that conferences like this are very important to make sure that young people are as clued up as possible.

"A career in the creative industries doesn't have to mean becoming a traditional artist or a musician - there are numerous roles, embracing new technology and new ideas that are out there for the picking.

"Your career is what you want it to be."

As well as hearing from Martin Boyce, students had the chance to participate in a range of workshops such as film making and editing, sculpture and other art forms and music making.

Pupils were also able to visit an information zone to find out more about further and higher education routes and specific careers in the creative industries.

The conference was organised by the council at a pivotal time in the pupils' school careers.

Councillor Jean McKeown, the chair of the council's Education Resources Committee, said: "I am delighted that this inaugural conference was so well received by students. It is important that we arm them with as much information as we can in order that we encourage them to make the right career choice.

"I hope that by exposing the pupils to such an inspirational artist and speaker will encourage some of them to think out of the box in terms of career choice and give them food for thought."