19 October 2026
“Me and mam have wanted to do our MA together for so long and we are so glad we get the chance”
Barbara (right) and Daisy Johnston
Some say university life can feel like being part of a big family, but that literally is the case for two students at the University of Sunderland.
Mother and daughter Barbara and Daisy Johnston, from Ashbrooke in Sunderland, have just begun their MA Visual Practice(opens in new tab) studies, and recently showcased their work as part of the University’s annual MA Degree Shows.
Both Barbara and Daisy graduated from the University with Fine Art(opens in new tab) degrees – Daisy graduated in July 2025, and Barbara back in 1991.
“I graduated from Sunderland Polytechnic in 1991 and then went on to complete my Post Graduate Certificate in Education, and became a teacher for 31 years,” says Barbara, 57. “I had always promised myself that I would take early retirement as soon as I was able so that I could fulfil my dream of completing my Master’s degree.
“Although I've always loved teaching and don't regret the course my life has taken, I have always had a love of painting too. I've kept painting whenever I could, even though working full time made it difficult.”
The opportunity for Barbara to fulfil her long-held ambition came last year when daughter Daisy, 23, graduated with a First, and decided to study for her Master’s in Visual Practice.
“Me and mam have wanted to do our MA together for so long and we are so glad we get the chance,” says Daisy.
“We are so lucky to have this time together and want to make it the best we can.”
Barbara added: “It is such a privilege to go through this course with Daisy. We support each other and have become even closer, and the year group are so friendly and welcoming.
“I can't believe how lucky I am sometimes; it really is like a dream come true for me and I'm amazed every day at how happy and fortunate I am and how much my work has developed. I can't wait to see where my painting goes next.”
For more information on studying MA Visual Practice at the University of Sunderland, click here.
For MA Design, click here.