Find out more about Chloe Smith, BA (Hons) Fine Art graduate, winner of the The Barbara Hackwood Prize for Outstanding Creative Development, which recognises the student who has shown the most progress and development during their three academic years with us. It bears the name of Barbara Hackwood who was a much loved member of staff at The Northern School of Art.

• Why did you choose to study at The Northern School of Art?

I chose to study at The Northern School of Art mainly due to the institution’s size. I believed that it would be easier to talk to the course tutors with the smaller class sizes and would have more opportunities to use the different resources here. Throughout my studies here I have found this to be absolutely true and the learning environment is welcoming and easy to approach all staff in the university.

• What’s your favourite memory of your time at the School (academically as well as socially!)

I’ve made so many amazing memories during my time here, too many to mention, and so many new friendships right from the beginning in freshers. One of the most recent ones would be our final degree show, this gave us the opportunity to share what we have been working on in the last few modules putting the ideas, skills and techniques learnt across the whole degree into practice.

On the opening night I remember feeling a great sense of achievement and was very proud to see others enjoying my work. The turnout was quite overwhelming in a good way, there was so much brilliant work to look at, live music to listen too and food to enjoy. It was a great night.

• What are you doing next and what are your plans/ambitions for the future?

Next year I will be continuing my studies at The Northern School of Art on the masters programme, MA Design Practice. I aim to expand my skills and learn new techniques in printmaking which will allow me to build a more extensive portfolio whilst learning about other creatives in this industry.

• Any advice for future students applying for the same course as you?

If you want to study but are worried about making friends or the work you will be producing, there’s no need to. I only decided a few weeks before the UCAS deadline that I wanted to go to university and I’m so glad I did, it’s the best thing I could have done. Freshers events are a great way to meet new people who will become forever friends.

Even though you’re here to study, remember to have fun. I found that in my time here I have not only developed as an artist but as a person. It’s been such a fab opportunity and I’ve had so much fun along the way.

• Where can people find out more about your work?