Partially sighted Sunderland student artist celebrates work going on display in exhibition
“The paintings that you see is essentially what I see through my own eyes”
A partially sighted artist from the University of Sunderland is celebrating her paintings being displayed at a new exhibition.
Megan Hart, who studies Fine Art at the University, has created a series of impressionist paintings inspired by some of their favourite video games, despite living with Nystagmus - a condition that causes rapid, repetitive and uncontrollable eye movements.
Megan’s work is currently on display at buildings across the university’s campuses as part of the Degree Shows 2026.
Explaining the impact of her condition on her art, 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.”
Inspired by artists like Claude Monet, Megan has created a series of impressionist paintings that takes dark subject matters explored in video games and twists them into colourful scenes full of texture.
One of their paintings, Confetti Bomb, takes inspiration from the video game Fallout 4 – transforming the devastating impact of nuclear bombs into something 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. People deal with awful things differently, so for me, this is my way of coping and reinterpreting these themes.”
During their time at the University, Megan, who spent time as a child in care, accessed support from the We Care Team who offer support with their studies to care leavers. Care experienced students like Megan can access a range of financial and pastoral support to help them during a time when they may face barriers that other students do not face.
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 received the Rotary Club of Sunderland President’s Prize 2026 in recognition of her achievements during her time at the University.
The Degree Shows 2026 are open to the public between June 8 to 12, between 10-5pm at both the University’s Priestman Building as well as at the National Glass Centre.
Sarah Riach, Associate Head of School of Art, Design and Performance at the University, 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.”