A partially-sighted fine art student is using their own visual experience to inspire a powerful body of work for this year’s Degree Shows at a North East university.
Megan Hart, who studies at the University of Sunderland, has created a series of impressionist paintings as part of their final exhibition.
The paintings reimagine the visual storytelling in video games through the lens of their condition, Nystagmus, which causes rapid, involuntary eye movements and affects their vision.
Megan said: "Being a partially sighted artist can be quite difficult at times but it’s also a strength for me as an artist.
"The paintings that you see is essentially what I see through my own eyes.
"It’s a fun part of my work to me – taking my own struggle and frustration and creating something meaningful.
"It’s a different way of painting, it’s personal and challenges me to create and evolve my work."
Their artwork blends dark subject matter from video games with vibrant colours and rich textures, drawing inspiration from Monet and other impressionists.
One painting, Confetti Bomb, is based on Fallout 4 and transforms the devastation of nuclear explosions into something visually bright and evocative.
Megan said: "It’s a serious theme but I wanted to bring a moment that impacted me from a video game and translate it in a way that is meaningful to me."
During their time at university, Megan, who is a care leaver, received support from the university’s We Care Team.
They described the help as invaluable throughout their studies.
Megan said: "Personally I really benefitted from the We Care team.
"The support is always there and will help you through every moment of university.
"They are a fantastic team and if you need support they will give it to you without question."
Wendy Price OBE, head of widening access and participation at the university, said: “We have a deep-rooted commitment to supporting care experienced students to thrive at each stage of their student journey.
"Working with colleagues across the University, we provide tailored support based on each student’s individual needs. We are incredibly proud of Megan’s achievements and can’t wait to see their paintings as part of this years’ degree show.”
Megan has also been awarded the Rotary Club of Sunderland President’s Prize 2026.
This year’s Degree Shows are open to the public on June 6 from 10am to 4pm and from June 8 to 12 from 10am to 5pm.
The exhibitions are being held at the university’s Priestman Building and the National Glass Centre.
Sarah Riach, associate head of the School of Art, Design and Performance, said: "Megan’s work is a wonderful example of how artists can draw on their own experiences to create something both personal and universally engaging.
"Megan's work captures the spirit of our Degree Shows and showcases the hard work, dedication and creativity of our Art and Design students.
"We look forward to sharing the work of these emerging creative voices with our visitors."
Other students are also presenting standout work.
Fashion student Alina Yusupova has developed her own biodegradable materials to create environmentally conscious garments.
Ms Yusupova said: "Pollution levels across the global are so high and I strongly believe that as a designer I can make an impact.
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"Materials used in fashion can have a harmful impact on our environment and biodegradable fashion can help change that and prevent further damage to the earth."
In graphic design, Dan Webster has produced a Sunderland AFC match day brochure as part of the university’s Made in Sunderland campaign.
Emma Sharpe, a student of animation and games art, has designed concept art telling a story about environmental responsibility, featuring a robotic companion and a seagull egg set in a world overrun by landfill.
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