Celebrating Our Graduates – Chi Trinh

Celebrating Our Graduates – Chi Trinh

Chi Trinh has just graduated with a Bachelor's Degree in Fine Arts (Sculpture), during her time at RMIT she has created some breathtaking sculptures and embraced university life!

Chi Trinh is an international student that arrived in Melbourne in 2019 from Hanoi, Vietnam, to study a Bachelor of Arts (Fine Arts - Sculpture).

‘I have always been an artistic girl, so when I found out about the fantastic facilities for the arts here at RMIT, I immediately applied’ she said.  

After one year of classes on campus Chi experienced the unforeseen transition to online learning during the pandemic, and the impact this had on removing opportunities that ‘campus life’ offers. 

‘Joining a club during the pandemic was undoubtedly a challenge’ Chi said.  

However, in Chis’ final year, with studies back on campus, she embraced all that was on offer, becoming the RMIT Sculpture Club President, a Kirrip Steward and most recently began working for RMIT as a Vocational Education Services Officer.  

We caught up with the graduate to chat about her course, time at RMIT and future plans. 

Alt Text is not present for this image, Taking dc:title 'Celebrating Our Graduates – Chi Trinh ' Celebrating Our Graduates – Chi Trinh

What course did you study?

I recently completed my bachelor’s degree in fine arts (Sculpture), where I was able to expand my art practice in different mediums and refine my sculpting skills whilst developing new skillsets such as welding, wood and metal working, ceramics and painting. There truly is a workshop for anything and everything creative here at RMIT, so being exposed to these new tools and techniques changed me for the better as an artist and a young professional.

Did you get involved in any clubs or communities within RMIT? What did you gain from them?

During my third year, I was elected the Sculpture Club President. Planning events and getting creative with reconnecting with the RMIT art community were among the most stimulating experiences. The organisational skills I learned from that experience still benefit me in my day-to-day work. 

What project or assignment are you most proud of?

 It is hard to pick which one of my works I like the most. They are all challenging in their way, and they are all valuable learning experiences. The project that a lot of people relate to is “Golden Cage” - 2021. With this work, I want to contribute to the ongoing conversation about sex crimes against women and the patriarchy’s entitlement to a woman’s body.

Chi’s sculpture - “Golden Cage” - 2021 Chi’s sculpture - “Golden Cage” - 2021

Who are the educators that have helped you throughout your degree? 

I appreciate and respect Charles O’loughlin as a teacher and an artist. He has been an amazing lecturer, and his genuine consideration has touched many students which was especially crucial during the trying lockdown periods.

What advice do you give to future students who are studying your course? 

For those that plan to study art at RMIT, I encourage them to take advantage of all the facilities and learn as many skills as possible to diversify their skillset. It is important to contextualize your work well and have the skill set to communicate your ideas with sophistication and impact to the audience. It is visual arts at the end of the day 😊 

What are your plans/ goals after graduating?

Post-graduation, I currently work at RMIT within the Vocational Education department while submerging myself into the Melbourne art scene plus learning a third language. I also plan to equip myself with more life skills and surround myself with inspiring people!

Are you graduating from RMIT this year? Join us for a range of events and activities to celebrate your achievements and help you get prepared for what comes next.

11 November 2022

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Acknowledgement of Country

RMIT University acknowledges the people of the Woi wurrung and Boon wurrung language groups of the eastern Kulin Nation on whose unceded lands we conduct the business of the University. RMIT University respectfully acknowledges their Ancestors and Elders, past and present. RMIT also acknowledges the Traditional Custodians and their Ancestors of the lands and waters across Australia where we conduct our business - Artwork 'Luwaytini' by Mark Cleaver, Palawa.