In focus: capturing construction moments at ECU City
ECU Photomedia student, Jessica Pugh, went behind-the-scenes at ECU City recently to capture highlights of the world-class campus under construction in the Perth CBD.
We sat down with Jessica to learn more about the experience.
What are you studying at ECU?
I am completing a Bachelor of Arts part-time, while working full-time, majoring in visual art with a photography minor.
How would you describe the experience of visiting ECU City during this transformational construction phase?
It was amazing and I really enjoyed it. I had never been on a building site before, but I have watched the build since it started. Walking past and seeing it go through each stage has been interesting.
As a photographer, being able to watch something change is fascinating. You have an intriguing eye, and you just want to investigate. It was a great privilege to access the site and take photos, and I will never forget it.
How have hands-on projects – such as the opportunity to take images of ECU City – enhanced your study experience?
It was quite an interesting experience because it put me in the mindset of doing commercial photography work.
I learned a lot about the process, including what I might have to do, and what would be expected of me. It excites me for the future in pursuing a career in art and photography.
How do you envisage the experience of studying at ECU City from semester one, 2026?
ECU City is in a prime location in the centre of Perth. I think it is going to bring a lot of good change to the area.
The campus will also have great views. It will be easy to get work done. Arts students will be able to find great suppliers close by, which would be helpful as a lot of study time can get taken up buying supplies.
I will graduate this year but am thinking about completing some other design units, so would love to have the opportunity to study at ECU City.
Which feature of ECU City are you most excited about?
I believe the School of Arts and Humanities will have professional, dedicated galleries for students to install their work.
We have a similar opportunity at the Mount Lawley campus now, however it is exciting to know that other artists may also be able to install their work in the galleries at ECU City, and that the galleries will be open to the public.
What do you love most about being an ECU student?
The community and welcoming environment are amazing. You meet a lot of like-minded people, and it’s good to have that community conversation, and those common interests.
One thing these conversations teach you is how to take constructive criticism. It’s one of the most important journeys that you go on throughout university because it’s such a learning stage. Those comments help you grow as an artist or as a photographer so you can keep improving your work.