Find out more about BA (Hons) Textiles and Surface Design graduate Sarah Howitt, winner of The Northern School of Art’s Gary Pearson Award (For Breaking Boundaries), given in memory of former student Gary Pearson to someone who has explored and pushed boundaries, whether they be personal, technical, visual or conceptual.

During his time studying at the School Gary was on a personal journey of self-discovery, and this annual award is given to a student who has explored their own path, been brave, independent, asked questions of their personal practice and broken boundaries in their own journey.

• What is your home town and which school/college did you join the School from?

I am from Middlesbrough and studied at The Northern School of Art’s Middlesbrough campus before joining the textiles and surface design degree course at the Hartlepool campus.

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

I chose The Northern School of Art because it is a small institution that has a friendly, open-minded and creative atmosphere where you can be who you are without judgement.

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

I plan to study on the MA Arts Practice course at The Northern School of Art to develop my practice further, collaborate with other students and develop my portfolio for prospects.

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

Take advantage of every opportunity, be experimental, try everything even if it doesn’t work. Also enjoy every second because it will fly by.

The Northern School of Art is amazing and has the most incredible tutors who will push you to reach your full potential, build your confidence both academic and personal as well encourage you to be who you are. I wouldn’t be who or where I am today without them, and I am grateful for everything they do.

• Where can people find out more about your work? 

My work is featured on artsthread.com/profile/sarah-howitt