A YOUNG artist who discovered her talent at nursery is being tipped for the top after winning an annual award.

The Northern School of Art student Hannah Johnson hopes one day to work in fashion for the likes of Dior or Prada. And local experts believe she has the talent and drive to succeed in top design houses inNew York.

Hannah was presented with the annual Cleveland Arts Society Award, recognising her creativity and skills, at its annual summer exhibition in Stokesley Town Hall.

Society president Ian Lightfoot told guests: “Her work shows fantastic draughtsmanship and we could tell she loves to draw experimentally. “We have no doubts that in five years time she will probably be working inNew York for the Likes of Dior or Armani.”

The 17-year-old, of Acklam, Middlesbrough, is about to start the second year of a BTEC Extended Diploma in Design Crafts.Last academic year she produced an ornate bird cage with clay roses, for a vintage magpie theme, as well as other work surrounding the 1950s.“I realised at nursery that I was good at art and then at school I got good grades in maths and English, but they didn’t interest me as much,” she said.
“Over the summer I have been working as a receptionist in Harrogate District Hospital which has given me a taste of life outside the region and has really whetted my appetite for travel. I would love to work inAmericaand adore Prada and Dior.”

Hannah has recently given up gymnastics after been British Champion three times. “But this is the first time I have ever won anything for my art and I feel really privileged,” she said.

“The Northern School of Art is a really great college and I am delighted my tutors recommended my work to the arts society.”