BA (Hons) Model Making & Visual FX alumnus Ysabella Caddy is the first gold-prize recipient of a new award for this year, the Norman Austick Award for Outstanding Commitment to the BA (Hons) Model Making & Visual FX course. The award is named after and presented by Lecturer Norman Austick, who worked at the school as a Lecturer in the Stage & Screen faculty for 32 years.
Reacting to the award Ysabella Caddy, 22 years old from Truro, Cornwall said “I was happy as it felt like I had been recognised for my work and my dedication to the course.”
For Ysabella’s final major project she “created a faux museum exhibit based on Cornish folklore creatures, including: a faux taxidermy of the Spriggan’s head and Skull, a faux taxidermy diorama of the Cornish Piskie, Cornish Giant’s footstep and a recreation of the Mermaid of Zennor’s mirror and comb.”
Reflecting on her time on her degree programme she said “My course was great at teaching me transferable skills that will translate into any model making industry I choose to pursue. I especially enjoyed learning how to use machinery like the laser cutter and the vac former.” She said that one of her favourite memories at the school came through the student union, she commented “I loved the SU events, especially the winter and end of year ball! It’s a great excuse to dress up and dance with everyone.”
When asked what her advice would be for students starting in September she said “Keep on top of your work as it builds up quicker than you think – I tried to do at least two PowerPoint slides per day to not get buried in work. Go to the beaches and parks around you, I think being at uni can be overwhelming but reconnecting with nature is really grounding and they are so close by!!”
Keep up to date with Ysabella work online: Instagram – @ysabella.c_art & linktree
The Northern School of Art’s BA (Hons) Model Making and Props degree is a programme designed to help the dreamers, creators, and innovators of the entertainment world to bring their imaginations to life. Whether it’s crafting intricate miniatures, stunning props, or lifelike creatures for stop motion animation, this industry-focused programme offers the tools and mentorship to turn creative passion into a thriving career. Find out more HERE