BA (Hons) Costume Interpretation with Design student Jude Pumpford is the recipient of this year’s Costume Student of the Year 2026 Award. This award is an acknowledgement of a high degree of commitment and professionalism throughout the programme and amongst the graduating students from BA (Hons) Costume Interpretation with Design.
Lecturers commented, “Over the past three years, Jude has consistently demonstrated exceptional professionalism and a remarkable dedication to costume. They have fully engaged in every aspect of their studies, from work experience to their outstanding commitment as a student representative.”
Jude Pumpford, 21 years old, from West Yorkshire, based her FMP project on the 1872 novella Carmilla. She said, “I wanted to focus on this book as it’s one of the vampire stories that acts as a basis for most modern vampire lore, but most people forget about it!”
“The novella has themes of forbidden female sexuality and the concept of religion vs the supernatural, so these were elements I wanted to explore within the costumes, with the vampire Carmilla’s costume taking inspiration from religious imagery and using flower language in both costumes to communicate hidden meanings.”
Reflecting on her time on the course, she said, “I had many opportunities to complete work experience throughout my time at The Northern School of Art, which I feel has greatly prepared me for working within the industry. As well as getting to explore a wide plethora of techniques, I feel very ready to enter the workforce.”
When asked what her advice is for future students, she said, “Don’t be afraid to take the opportunities offered to you! Work experience seems intimidating at first, but I’ve made so many industry connections through it that will help me with my career outside of uni. It’s also majorly built my confidence — I’m a completely different person to who I was in first year by pushing myself out of my comfort zone!”
Speaking of living in Hartlepool, she said, “Definitely explore the surrounding area! There are so many transport links to places like Newcastle and Middlesbrough, where there are all sorts of artsy events going on. I’ve definitely made the most of my railcard, going out and about.”
See more of Jude’s work on her Instagram: @judepumford.costume.
The Northern School of Art’s technically focused BA (Hons) Costume Interpretation with Design degree course provides comprehensive training in the skills to create bespoke garments for a wide range of performance contexts — including stage, screen, heritage, and live events. Find out more HERE