UAL Graphic Design Diploma student Jessica Sweet is the recipient of this years Principal Award, given to the student who has made the most progress during their time at The Northern School of Art. The award is for the student who has travelled the furthest distance in their creative and educational journey, which can be exemplified through Jess’s powerful Final Major Project inspired by her experience living with scoliosis.
Judges commented, “The Principal’s Award winner has demonstrated outstanding personal, creative and professional development throughout their time at the School. Their Final Major Project transformed a personal experience into a powerful and professionally executed creative campaign, showcasing exceptional skills across branding, photography, digital design and visual communication. Alongside their studies, they achieved national success by winning first place in a prestigious skills competition, competing against some of the most talented young designers in the country. They have also begun building professional experience through freelance work while balancing other responsibilities with maturity and dedication. Their ambition, creativity and commitment have set them apart, making them a truly worthy recipient of this years Principal’s Award.”
Reacting to winning the Principal’s Award Jess said, “it was an incredibly emotional moment for me and something I never expected. To be recognised by my tutors as a student who has come the furthest over the last two years means more than I can put into words. Looking back at where I started and where I am now, I feel immensely proud of how much I have grown both as a designer and as a person.”
Jess impressed judges, lecturers and visitors at this years Summer Show with her compelling Final Major Project Difusion which she describes as, “the most personal piece of work I have ever created.”
She explains, “It was inspired by my experience of living with scoliosis and wearing a back brace for nine years, from the age of seven until sixteen. Those years shaped my confidence, identity, and understanding of what it feels like to be different. Despite this being such a significant part of my life, I had never spoken about it to my tutors or peers throughout my time at college. Creating Difusion gave me the confidence to finally tell that story. The project became much more than a brand; it became a way of turning something I once struggled to accept into something empowering. I created a campaign that encourages people to embrace their differences rather than hide them.”
“One of the most meaningful parts of the exhibition was displaying my first and last scoliosis braces alongside my work. The first was worn when I was diagnosed at seven years old, and the last when I was discharged at sixteen. For me, they represented not only the journey that inspired the project, but also the person I used to be. To stand beside them at the end-of-year show, sharing a story I had kept private for so many years, felt incredibly powerful and emotional.”
Displaying her work marks an important chapter for Jess, she commented: “The timing of the project feels particularly significant because I started at The Northern School of Art at sixteen, the same age I stopped wearing my brace and was discharged from treatment. In many ways, college marked the beginning of a completely new chapter in my life. It gave me the opportunity to rebuild my confidence, discover my creative voice, and realise that the experiences that once made me feel different could actually become my greatest strength as a designer.”
“Receiving the Principal’s Award at the end of that journey feels like a full-circle moment,” reflected Jess. “It is a reminder of how far I have come, not only academically, but personally. It is an achievement I will always be proud of and one that I will carry with me throughout my future career.”
When asked about how she has found her time at the School, Jess replied, “My time at The Northern School of Art has had a huge impact on me, both creatively and personally. From the moment I attended the open evening, I knew it was somewhere I wanted to study, but I never expected how much I would grow over the next two years. The support from my tutors encouraged me to challenge myself and take opportunities I might once have avoided. Looking back at where I started, I leave with not only stronger design skills, but also a greater sense of confidence in myself, my ideas, and my ability to take on the creative industry.”
Make sure you keep up to date with Jess’ work on her Instagram: @madenorth.studio
The Northern School of Art’s UAL Level 3 Extended Diploma is Graphic & Digital Design is a two-year course designed for students who want to explore how ideas, messages, and emotions can be communicated visually. Using industry-standard software students explore specialisms such as branding, editorial, and digital design while building a personal portfolio that reflects their own style. Find out more HERE