Reflecting on the SM-LL lecture, I realized how much an artist’s mindset is tied to their country’s social safety net. As an international student from China, my view of money is shaped by a sense of survival and visa pressure. I was shocked to learn how the UK’s welfare system—such as Thames Water bill discounts or government grants—allows local artists to pursue non-profit-driven dreams.
One of my peers mentioned that her partner quit a good job the moment he saved £3,000, choosing to stay home and focus on his interests because of the available social support. This cultural difference is immense. For Chinese artists in London, we must consider the Global Talent Visa (GTV) or Graduate Visa (PSW), which requires a much higher level of commercial stability. This realization has made me appreciate the inclusivity of the UK creative scene, but also made me realize that my “commercial” fashion work is not a distraction—it is my necessary “safety net” in a foreign system.